HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995/06/14 - Agenda Packet - Adjourned AGENDA
Adjo~ed Meeting
J~e 14, 1995 - 5:30 p.m.
T~ Commties Room
10500 Civic Center Drive
R~cho Cucmonga, C~ifo~a
A. CAI,I, TO ORDER
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call:
Alexander d", Biane J, Curatalo ./;/Gutierrez_---';"Williams ..,--/.
B. ITEM OF DISCUSSION
DISCUSSION OF RESIDENTIAl. FIRE SPRINKLER ORDINANCE
C. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PURl ,IC
This is the time and place for the general public to address the City Council. State law prohibits the Council
from addressing any issue not previously included on the Agenda. The Council may receive testimony and set
the matter for a subsequent meeting. Comments are to be limited to five minutes per individual.
D. ADJOURNMENT
I, Debra J. Adams, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, hereby certify that a true, accurate copy of the
foregoing agenda was posted on June 8, 1995, seventy-two (72) hours prior to the meeting per Government Code
54954.2 at 10500 Civic Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga, California.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
MEMO UM
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
BY:
SUBJECT:
June 8, 1995
Mayor and Members of the City Council
Jack Lam, A.I.C.P., City Manager
Bill Makshanoff, Building Official
Dennis Michael, Fire Chief
Residential Fire Sprinkler Ordinance Backeround
On November 7, 1990, the City Council adopted the current ordinance requiring automatic fire
sprinkler systems in all residential occupancies. Attached for your review are copies of the staff
reports to the City Council and the Public Safety Committee.
As indicated in the staff reports, public hearings were held and testimony was received from the
public, including industry representatives, on the merits of the ordinance. When the ordinance
was formally adopted, findings were made in compliance with the State of California Health and
Safety Code Section 17958.5
At the direction of the City Council, this workshop was scheduled to discuss with building
industry representatives changes in technology and other advancements with respect to
residential fire sprinklers. These changes could be integrated into the ordinance for the purpose
of mitigating costs while maintaining the high public safety standards that have become an
integral part of the development of the City of Rancho Cucamonga. Staff is prepared to discuss
in detail these advancements, as well as other issues that have arisen with respect to Residential
Fire Sprinkler ordinances in the State of California.
RANCHO CUCAMONGA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
STAFF REPORT
DATE:
'1~
FROM:
BY:
SUBJF. fr..
Septe~d)e~ 5, ig90
Mayor and Members of the City Council
L. Dennis Michael. Fire Chief
Lloyd B. Aimand, Division Chief/Fire Marshal
Findings of Fact for Residential Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Ordinance:
I. RFCO~ATION:
Staff recommends approval of the Resolution detailing the findings of fact in
support of the Ordinance requiring the installation of automatic fire
sprinklers in single family and multi-family dwellings, as recommended by
the Public Safety Commission at their June 12, 1990 meeting.
II. BACKtIROUN~:
The State of California, through its Health and Safety Code, mandates that
Findings of Fact be adopted whenever a city or county makes changes or
modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in
the State Building Standards Code (i.e. Uniform Building Code) that are
considered to be reasonably necessal7 because of local climatic, geological or
topographicai conditions.
Although the law states that only one of the three aforementioned conditions
needs to exist when filing the Findings of Fact, we have presented evidence on
all three of the areas in an effort to substantiate more clearly and definitively
the problems that exist within the City and which emergency personnel have
been and can be confronted with.
Also, we have added a new dimension to the findings in that we have included
graphic illustrations of what we have detailed in writing in an effort to add
clarity and proof to our Endings of Fact.
Respectfully submitted.
Fire Chief
LDM/js
RESOLUTION NO. 90-352
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
CUCANONGA, CALIFORNIA, MAKING EXPRESS FINDINGS AND
DETERMINATIONS THAT MODIFICATIONS TO THE CITY'S BUILDING
CODE, AS ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE NO. 426 ARE REASONABLY
NECESSARY BECAUSE OF LOCAL CLIMATIC, GEOLOGICAL OR
TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS
A. Recital s.
(i) California Health and Safety Code Section 17922 requires all
cities to adopt, as the City Building Standards Code, the State Building
Standards Code adopted pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 4 of Part 2.5 of
Division 13 of the California Health and Safety Code.
(ii) Pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.2, the
City of Rancho Cucamonga has adopted by reference, the 'Uniform Building Code,
1988 Edition'.
(iii) Section 17958,5 of the California Health and Safety Code
provides, in pertinent part, as follows:
"...a city or county may make such changes or modifica-
tions in the requirements contained in the provisions
published in the State Building Standards Code and the
other regulations adopted pursuant to Section 17922 as it
determines, pursuant to the provi si ons of Secti on
17958.7, are reasonably necessary because of local
climatic, geological or topographical conditions.'
(iv) Prior to making the modifications permitted under Section
17958.5 of the California Health and Safety Code, this Counctl is required to
make an express finding that such modifications or changes are needed in
accordance with California Health and Safety Code Sectton 17958.7.
(v) This Council desires to amend the provisions of Section 3802 of
the "Uniform Building Code, 1981) Edition".
(vt) All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have
occurred.
B. Resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucaeonga does
hereby find, determine and resolve as follows:
Resol utt on.
In all respects as set forth in the Recitals, Part A, of this
Resol uti on No. 90-352
Page 2
2. This council does hereby expressly find and determine that the
amendments set forth in Ordinance No. 426, amending Section 3B02 of the
"Uniform Building Code, 1988 Edition" are reasonably necessary because of
local climatic, geological and topographical conditions. This express finding
i s supported and based upon the fol 1 owl ng more speci fi c fi ndi ngs and
determi nations:
A. Geol ogi cal:
A unique geological condition exists within the City of
Rancho Cucamonga i n that five earthquake faults are
present, which create the potential for severe damage and
fire hazards. There is potential also for damage to road-
ways and impairment of access for fire equipment to respond
to emergencies in the event of a severe earthquake. Since
January 1, 1990, the Rancho Cucamonga area has been jolted
by at least 28 earthquakes and after shocks, ranging from
3.1 to 5.5 on the Richter Scale. (See Exhibit 'A' and
"A-l")
Adverse geological conditions exist throughout a substan-
tial part of the City of Rancho Cucamonga that give rise to
excessive flooding. Flood control facilities are not
adequate to handle the water flow that occurs during major
rains. Some of the streets in the City are actually
designed and used for flood control purposes, thus making
fire and emergency access difficult during flood condt-
tl ons.
According to the Ctty's Engineering Department, using Base
Line Road as the median east-west street, during a normal
rain season, the following streets are designed to carry
the runoff as indicated:
(a) Carnel t an Street: 1,100 cubic fee per second, or
8,299 gallons per second, and
(b) Hellman Avenue: 1,700 cubic feet per second or 12,717
gallons per second, and
(c) Hermosa Avenue: 2,700 cubic feet per second or 20,198
gallons per second.
As a consequence, many of the streets within the City are
impaired during such flood conditions and such flooding
causes physical damage to the streets and the accumulation
of debris, all of which hinder the access of fire equipment
to respond to fire emergencies. {See Exhibit 'B'}
Resol uti on No. 90-352
Page 3
Access of fire equipment responding to calls is often
hampered by the adverse c11matic and geological conditions
wt thtn the Ctty, because al 1 of the City' s ft re star1 ons
are in the northerly portion of the City· The northern
area of the District is often the most damaged and impaired
by the adverse climatic and geological conditions, thereby
limiting access of emergency vehicles responding to calls
within their own "first-in' district. (See Exhibit "C')
Topographi cal:
The topography of the City of Rancho Cucamonga is generally that
of a gently sloping inclined plane which projects from the base
of the San Bernardino Mountains, at an elevation in excess of
2,400 feet above sea level, in a southerly direction where the
elevation is approximately 1,400 feet lower. Natural slopes of
8 percent or greater generally occur in the northern third of
the City. In many cases, slopes in the foothills exceed 40
percent. There are two locations where steeper topography
occurs in the sourher portion of the City. These two locations
are the Redhill area and the area directly east of Redhill
Park. The elevation changes caused by the mountains and hills
creates the geological foundation on which the City is built and
will continue to build. With much of the flatlands either
already built upon or dedicated for approved projects, it can be
anticipated that upon future growth will occur on steeper slopes
and greater contrasts in terrain. All of these topographical
conditions have created slower response times of emergency
vehi cl es into the hi gh growth areas, due to the extraordinary
uphill slope of the land.
Climate:
Extreme high winds, conmonly referred to as Santa Ana
winds, are generated from the desert and reach the basin
through Devote Pass and first contact highly-developed
areas within City boundaries at velocities, sometimes in
excess of 80 mph. Extensive damage often occurs during
such winds, i ncl udi ng downed el ectri c wtres, downed poles,
fal 1 en trees, bl owl ng sand and dust.
In recent years, beginning in late 1987, the City has
incurred Santa Ana winds ranging in velocity from BO to 83
mph. On December 12, 1987, approximately 30 Edison power
poles along Base Line Road were snapped in half and blown
down by the high winds· Those downed poles totally pre-
vented the use of Base Line Road for emergency vehicles.
Alternate emergency routes had to be utilized for the next
three days. The use of those alternate routes caused
delays in what would have been normal and routine emergency
responses.
Resol uti on No. 90-352
Page 4
On January 22, 1988, wtnds again caused severe response
problems. Htgh voltage electrical wtres were blown down at
numerous 1 ocati ons throughout the City. Emergency
apparatus were tied up at those locations pendtng the
arrtval of Edtson electrical crews, which In some cases
exceeded one hour.
On February 16, 1988, winds again hit the City extremely
hard. This particular time the high winds generated such a
severe blowing sand and dust problem that the emergency
units responding to a structure fire east of Haven Avenue
were stopped in their tracks, due to no visibility. That
incident not only stopped the emergency response, but also
resulted in significant fire vehicle damage.
These adverse conditions result in:
(a) Fires (See Exhibit 'D")
(b) Impairment of fire equipment access (See Exhibit 'E')
{c) Delays in responses of fire equipment; and
(d) Fire personnel and eqeipment co,ettted to non-fire
emergenctes.
Weather conditions, coupled with fla,mmable vegetation in
the City results in numerous wildland fires, which draw
exi sting fi re fi ghti ng forces from their structure
protection duties for extended periods of time. This
results in extended response times to structure fires when
such personnel and equi ment are comt tted to non-
structural protection. {See Exhibit "F')
3. The City Clerk shall, and hereby is directed to, forthwith upon
the adoption of this Resolution, file a certified copy of this Resolution,
together with certified copies of Ordinance No. 426, with the California
Department of Housing and Commmunity Development .as required by Section 17958.7
of the California Health and Safety Code.
4. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 17th day of October, 1990.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Alexander, Brown, Buquet, Stout, Wright
None
None
Resolution No. 90-352
Page 5
D/nni~sL- Stout, Mayor
ATTEST:
I, DEBRA J. ADAMS, CITY CLERK of the City of Rancho Cucamonga,
California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly passed,
approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga,
California, at a regular meeting of said City Council held on the 17th day of
October, 1990.
Executed this 18th day of October, 1990 at Rancho Cucamonga, California..
EXHIBIT A- 1
EARTHQUAKE ESCARPMENT IN
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THIS
MOVES LATERALLY
NORTH ETIWANDA AREA
· MOVING" FAULT LINE
APPROXIMATELY 11/2 CM PER YEAh
THIS ESCARPM'i~'I~'~'RUNS't"~,~'~'~'~k~.'L:Y BELOW' THE 'SOe~
IN NORTH ETIWANDA AND THROUGH THE PLATEAU THAT
ONCE WAS THE SITE OF THE U.S. FORESTRY FIRE STATION
EXHIBIT B
FLOODING ON 4TH STREET AT 1-15 - 1990
FLOODING ON HERMOSA AVENUE AT CHURCH STREET - 1990
·
/-
EX*HIBIT D
BRUSHLAND IN NORTH ETIWANDA AREA
TEXAS
FIRE AS
AT EAST
IT CROSSED SUMMIT
AVENUE SCHOOL
AVENUE
EXHIBIT
;Z
Z
0
0
't-
O
/3
EXHIBIT F
THICK
VEGETATION GROWTH
IN AREA NORTH OF HIGHLAND
AVEN
TEXAS FIRE BEFORE IT CAME OUT OF CANYON BOWL
AND RAN THROUGH ETIWANDA
/~
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
STAFF REPORT
September 5, 1990
Mayor, Members of the City Council and City Manager
Jerry Grant, Building Official
RESIDENTIAl, FIRE SPRINKLERS
1977
II.
III.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended by the Public Safety Commission that
the City Council review the accompanying ordinance and, if found to be
consistent with direction given by the Council for, its' preparation,
that the City Council conduct a public hearing and hold first reading of
the Ordinance.
BACKGROUND: On April 18, I990, the City Council directed staff to
prepare a residential fire sprinkler ordinance and requested the Public
Safety Commission to hold hearings on the matter and make
recommendations to the City Council in that regard.
The Public Safety Commission held public hearings on of June 5, and June
12, took testimony from industry and staff members, made modifications
to certain staff recommendations and referred the information back to
the City Council with a recommendation for adoption.
ANALYSIS: Current building regulations require an automatic sprinkler
system in multiple residential buildings exceeding two stories in height
or incorporating more than 15 dwelling units. The proposed ordinance
amends and supplements the existing building codes currently in effect,
adding two new standards {based upon National Fire Protection
Association Standards 13D and 13R) to the current Uniform Building Code
Standards and amending the current Uniform Building Code requiring
sprinklers in all other new residential~buildings and certain accessory
buildings in close proximity thereto.
The accompanying draft adopts, by reference, the two nationally
recognized standards outlined above. The locations identified by
asterisks in the accompanying standards are those where changes or
additions have been proposed to adapt the published documents to the
codes or the Public Safety Commission's conclusions. Wording proposed
~or sections so identified can be found in the body of the ordinance.
The significant technical changes to the published standards are:
One and Two Family Dwellings
Alarm bell(s), alerting occupants and surrounding properties are
required on all systems, deleting the exception for substitution of
smoke detectors in their place.
_/
STAFF REPORT: RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLERS
September S, 1990
Page 2
b. The standards and building code have been modified to require fire
sprinklers in garages and carports attached to or within 10 feet of
a residential building on the same property or within five feet of a
property 1 ine.
c. A fire department connection {a stand pipe to allow the fire
department to increase pressure in the system) is required for
buildings over 5000 square feet in area.
Multiple family dwellings less than three-stories in height or comprised
of 15 units or less
a. Connection of the alarm system to a central station {constantly
manned monitoring agency} is required.
b. The standard has been revised to require sprinklers in pent-house
equipment rooms, crawl spaces, ~ oor and ceiling spaces, elevator
shafts, etc., but allowing omission of sprinklers in attics not
utilized for living or storage.
It is contemplated that administration and enforcement of the
regulations will be the responsibility of the Building and Safety
Division with cooperation and assistance from the Fire District. This
is due, in part, to a recent Attorney General opinion questioning
authority of fire districts to enact building regulations. Further,
because the proposal is directly related to construction rather than
maintenance of buildings, the City Attorney has recommended that the
proposed ordinance become a part of the City's building regulations.
Financial support for enforcement will be derived from fees charged for
plan checking and permits, with secondary supplement from the Fire
District.
As requested, Public Safety Commission documentation is being submitted
under separate cover.
IV.
SUMMARY: The accompanying ordinance represents the combined efforts of
the Fire Prevention Bureau and the Building and Safety Division in
conjunction with direction from the Public Safety Commission to meet the
needs of the city and respond to the City Council's direction. The~,
results of that effort are submitted herewith for your review and
consl derati on.
Respectful ly submitted,
JRG/kes
ORDINANCE NO. 426
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
CUCAHONGA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 15.04 OF TITLE
15, BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION, OF THE RANCHO CUCAJqONGA
HUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE STANDARDS NFPA
13D AND NFPA 13R, BOTH PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL FIRE
PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, REQUIRING THE INSTALLATION OF
AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RESIDENTIAL
OCCUPANCIES AND CERTAIN BUILDINGS ACCESSORY THERETO, WITH
CERTAIN AJqENDMENTS, DELETIONS AND EXCEPTIONS TO SAID
CODES
A. Recital s.
{i) Article 2, Chapter 1, Part 1, Division 1, Title 5 of the
California Government Code authorizes adoption by reference of National Fire
Protection Association Standards NFPA 13D, 1989 edition, and NFPA 13R, 1989
edition, each as published by the National Fire Protection Association.
{ii) At least one copy of each of said Standards, certified as a
full, true and correct copy thereof by the City Clerk of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga, has been filed in the office of the City Clerk of the City of
Rancho Cucamonga in accordance with the provisions of Government Code Section
50022.6.
{iii} A duly noticed public hearing as required by Government Code
Section 50022.3 has been conducted and concluded prior to the adoption of this
Ordinance.
(iv) All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have
occurred.
B. Ordinance.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga does
hereby find, determine and ordain as follows:
SECTION 1:
this Ordinance.
In all respects as set forth in the Recitals, Part A, of
SECTION 2: Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code entitled
"Buildings and Construction", of the City Council of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga is hereby amended, provided that said amendment shall not apply to
or excuse any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance, and provided further that the Uniform Codes adopted and amended by
Ordinance No. 412 of this City shall continue to be applicable to construction
for which permits have been issued prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance.
SECTION 3: Chapter 15.12 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is
hereby amended by adding Section 15.12.166 and 15.12.168 to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 426
Page 2
15.12.166 Section 3802{h} Amended - Group R, Division 1,
Occupancies. Section 3802{h} of said Uniform Building Code is amended to read
as follows:
Section 3802{h} Group R, Division 1, Occupancies. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every Group R,
Division 1, Occupancy as follows:
In every apartment house 3 or more stories in height or contain-
ing more than 15 dwelling units, and every hotel 3 or more
stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, the
system is to be installed in accordance with UBC Standard 38-1,
"Design Installation and Acceptance of Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Systems", except that residential or quick response standard
sprinkler heads shall be used in the dwelling unit and guest
room portions of the building. The water flow alarm for such
systems shall be monitored by an approved central station.
In all new Group R, Division 1, Occupancies, other than those
specified in subsection Oh} 1. above, the system shall be
installed in accordance with UBC Standard 38-3, 'Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Apartment Houses, Hotels,
Convents and !~onasteries I. ess than Three Stories in Height'.
15.12.168 Subsections 3802(i), {j) and (k) Added- Group
Division 3 and Group t4, Division 1, Occupancies and Reconstructed Buildings.
Section 3802{i) Group R, Division 3, Occupancies. An automatic
fire sprinkling system shall be installed in all new Group R,
Division 3, Occupancies. System design and installation shall be
conducted in accordance with UBC Standard 38-4, "Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Dwellings and Lodging Houses".
(j) Group M, Division 1, Occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkling
system shall be installed in all new Group M, Division 1, Occupancies
constructed within 10 feet of a sprinklered residential occupancy on
the same property.
EXCEPTION: Group M, Division 1, Occupancies exempt from permit
requirements by Section 301(b) 1. of the Uniform Administrative
Code, as adopted.
Such buildings attached to or accessory to residential buildings may
be supplied from the system serving the primary use, however, piping
and installation within the accessory portions shall be in accordance
with UBC Standard 38-1.
Ordinance No. 426
Page 3
(k) Reconstructed Buildings. Any existing building of an occupancy
referred to in subsection {h), (i) or (j) of this Section, that is
hereafter damaged as a result of fire, earthquake or other disaster,
and which requires substantially complete demolition and reconstruc-
tion, shall be provided with an automatic fire sprinkler system as
specified in the pertinent subsection.
SECTION 4: Chapter 15.14 is hereby added to Title 15 of the Rancho
Cucamonga !qunicipal Code, adopted by Ordinance 412, of the City Council of the
City of Rancho Cucamonga, to read in words and figures as follows:
CHAPTER 15.14
Uniform Building Code Standards
Sections:
15.14.020
15.14.030
15.14.040
15.14.050
15.14.060
15.14.070
15.14.080
15.14.090
15.14. 100
15.14,110
15.14.120
15.14.130
15.14. 140
Section 1.1 Amended- Scope
Section 2-1.3 Amended - Inspection and Testing
Secti on 2-4.2 Amended - Fi re Department Connections
Section 2-4.6 Amended - Alarms
Section 2-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers
Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 Added - Adoption
of NFPA 13D Standard by Reference
Section 1.1 Amended - Scope
Section 1-5.1.2 Amended - Listed and Approved
Section 1-5.1.4 Amended - Testing and Inspection
Section 3-1.1 Amended Valves and Drains
Section 3-6 Amended - Alarms
Secti on 3-7 Added - Fi re Department Connecti on
Section 4-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers
Section 15.14.010 Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 Added -
Adoption of NFPA 13R Standard by Reference. The Uniform Building Code
Standards, adopted by Ordinance No. 412 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, is
hereby amended by adoption of NFPA 13R Standard, 1989 Edition, published by
the National Fire Protection Association, Inc. Said NFPA 13R Standard shall
be referenced as Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3, 'Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Apartment Houses, Hotels, Convents and
!qonasteries Less Than Three Stories in Height' and shall be utilized in design
and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems required by Section
3802(h) 2. of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by this Ordinance, except
as further amended by Sections 15.14.020 through 15.14.060 following.
Section 15.14.020 Section 1.1 Amended - Scope. Section 1-1 of
said Uniform building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No~ 426
Page 4
Section 1.1 Scope. This standard shall be used in design and
installation of automatic sprinkler systems installed in residential
occupancies less than 3 stories in height, not withstanding any
conflicting story-height referenced herein.
Section 15.14.030 Section 2-1.3 Amended - Inspection and Testing.
Section 2-1.3 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended to
read as follows:
Section 2-1.3{a) Inspection and Testing. All supply piping shall
be hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA 13 Standard. All
systems shall be flow tested in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga Fire
District Standards.
{b} Inspection shall be requested by the permittee at stages of
construction as outlined below:
When underground piping is complete but prior to concealment of
any portion thereof and prior to connection to the overhead
piping riser. Hydrostatic test gauge(s) are to be in place, the
sys tern fl us bed and pipi ng pressurized for inspecti on.
When all overhead piping, fittings and riser are installed but
prior to concealment of any portion thereof. Hydrostatic test
gauge{s} are to be in place and the overhead system pressurized
for inspection.
When pt ping has been conceal ed and al 1 sprt nkl er heads, al arm
bell(s), flow and tamper valves and monitoring devices installed
and/or connected. Testing of associated devices, i.e., alarms,
flow and tamper valves and monitoring systems is to be conducted
at this time.
Section 15.14.040 Section 2-4.2 Amended - Fire Department
Connection. At least one, 1-1/2 inch or one, 2-1/2 inch fire department
connection shall be provided when the sprinkler system has 20 sprinklers or
more. Fire department connections shall be located in accordance with Rancho
Cucamonga Fi re Protection District standards.
Section 1514.050 Section 2-4.6 Amended - Alarms. Section 2-4.6
of said Uniform Building Code Standard ts hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 2-4.6 Alarms. All water flow alarms shall be monitored
by an approved central station in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga
Fire Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.060 Section 2-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers.
Section 2-6 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended as
fol 1 ows:
Ordinance No; 426
Page 5
Section 2-6 Location of Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be installed
i nal 1 areas.
EXCEPTIONS:
Sprinklers may be omitted from bathrooms not exceeding 55
sq.ft. in area with non-combustible plumbing fixtures.
Spri nkl ers may be omitted from smal 1 clothes closets where
the least horizontal dimension does not exceed 3 sq.ft. and
the floor area does not exceed 24 sq.ft. and the wall s and
ceiling are surfaced with material of Class I flame-spread
classification, as defined in Chapter 42 of the Uniform
Building Code.
Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces and
other concealed spaces that are not used or intended for
living purposes or storage.
Section 15.14.070 Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 Added -
Adoption of NFPA 13D Standard by Reference. The Uniform Building Code
Standards adopted by Ordinance No. 412 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, is
hereby amended by adoption of NFPA 13D Standard, 1989 Edition published by the
National Fire Protection Association, Inc. Said NFPA 13D Standard shall be
referenced as Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4, 'Installation of Automatic
Fire Sprinkler Systems in Dwellings and Lodging Houses', and shall be utilized
in design and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems required by
Section 3802{i) and (j) of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by this
Ordinance, except as further amended by Sections 15.14.080 through 15.14.140
fol 1 owl ng.
Section 15.14.080 Section 1.1 Amended - Scope. Section 1.1 of
said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1.1 Scope. This standard shall be used in the design and
installation of autemattc sprinkler systems Installed in dwellings
and lodging houses and tn certain accessory buildings, not with-
standtrig any references herein to eobtlehomes.
Sectton 15.14.090 Section 1-5.1.2 Amended - Listed and Ap roved
i
Devices. Section 1-5.1.2 of said Uniform Bu ldtng Code Standard 3~P-m4 is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1-5.1.2
approved devtces
sprt nkl er systems.
Listed and approved devices·
and matertal s shal 1 be used
Only listed or
t n automatt cft re
Ordinance No~ 426
Page 6
EXCEPTION: Listing may be waived for tanks, pumps and for
support devices as permitted by Section 3-4.1. Use of unlisted
devices shall be approved by the Buildi. ng Official with the
concurrence of the Fire Chief.
Section 15.14.100 Section 1-5.1.4 Amended - Testing and
Inspection. Section 1-5.1.4 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1-5.4(a) Inspection and Testing. All systems shall be
hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA 13 Standard. All
systems shal 1 be fl ow-tested i n accordance with Rancho Cucamonga Fi re
Protection District standards.
{b} Inspections shall be requested by the permittee at stages of
construction as outlined below:
When underground piping is complete but prior to concealment of
any portion thereof and prior to connection to the overhead
piping riser. Hydrostatic test gauge(s) are to be in place, the
system flushed and piping pressurized for inspection.
When all overhead piping, fittings and riser are installed but
prior to concealment of any portion thereof. Hydrostatic test
gauge{s) are to be in place and the overhead system pressurized
for inspection.
When piping has been concealed and all sprinkler heads, alarm
bell{s), flow and tamper valves and monitoring devices installed
.and/or connected. Testing of associated devices, ie. alarms,
flow and tamper valves and monitoring systems is to be conducted
at this time.
Section 15.14,110 Section 3-1.1 Amended - Valves and Drains.
Section 3-1.1 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to
read as follo.ws:
Section 3-1.1 Valves and Drains. Each System shall have a
single control valve arranged to shut off both the domestic and
sprinkler systems, and a separate shut-off for the domestic system
only.
EXCEPTIONS:
The sprinkler system piping may have a separate control
valve where supervised by one of the following methods:
Central station, proprietary or remote station alarm
system.
Ordinance No: 426
Page 7
Local alarm service that will cause the sounding of an
audible signal at a constantly artended point.
A separate shut-off valve is not required for' the domestic
water supply in multi purpose piping systems.
Section 15.14.120 Section 3-6 Amended - Alarms. Section 3-6 of
said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 3-6 Alarms. Local waterflow alarm(s) shall be provided on
all systems. The waterflow alarm or alarms shall be located on {an}
exterior wall{s), or such other location(s) as approved by the
Building Official with the concurrence of the Fire Chief, and so
located as to be audible throughout the building.
Section 15.14.130 Section 3-7 Added - Fire Department Connection.
Chapter 3 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended by
addition of Section 3-7 to read as follows:
Sectt on 3-7 Fi re Department Connecti on. A11 R-3 occupancies
exceeding S,O00 sq.ft. in floor area shall be provided with an
approved fire department connection installed in accordance with
Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.140 Section 4-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers.
Section 4-6 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to
read as fol 1 ows:
Section 4-6 Location of Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be installed
i nal 1 areas.
EXCEPTION:
Sprinklers may be omitted from bathrooms not exceeding 55
sq.ft. in floor area with non-combustible plumbing
fixtures.
Spri nkl ers may be omttted from smal 1 closets where the
least horizontal dimension does not exceed 3 sq.ft. and the
floor area does not exceed 24 sq.ft. and the walls and
ceiling are surfaced with materials of Class I .flame spread
classification as defined in Chapter 42 of the Uniform
Building Code.
Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces and
other concealed spaces that are not used or intended for
living purposes or storage.
Sprinklers may be omitted from entrance (oyers that are not
the only means of egress.
Ordinance No. 426
Page 8
SECTION 5: This Ordinance shall remain in effect until the effective
date of Ordinance 434 at which time this Ordinance will become null and void.
SECTION 6: The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance and the City Clerk
shall cause the same to be published within fifteen {15) days after its
passage at least once in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin a newspaper of
general circulation published in the City of ~Ontario, California, and
circulated in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 7th day of November, 1990.
Alexander, Buquet, Stout, Wright
AYES:
NOES: None
ABSENT: Brown
ATTEST:
ra J. #,~ ty 13'1 erk
I, DEBRA J. ADAJ~S, CITY CLERK of the City of Rancho Cucamonga,
California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a
regular meeting of the Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the
17th day of October, 1990, and was finally passed at a regular meeting of the
City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the 7th day of November,
1990.
Executed thts 8th day of November, 1990 at Rancho Cucamonga,
Cali forni a.
I3D-
Cop.~r:i~t C t989 NFPA, .All RI~.u Reserved
NFPA 13D
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes
1989 Edition
This edition of NFPA t 3D, Standard for the Installation of $pnnkler S. vstem.f in One-
and Two-Farntty Dwellings and Mobile HorneL was prepared by the Technical Cornmince
on Automatic Spnnklers, released by the Corretatiul Committee on water Extinguishing
Systems. and acted on by the National Fire Protection Association, Inc. at its Fall Meetinl
held November 14-17. 1988 in Nashville. Tennessee. It was issued by the Standards
Council on January 13, 1989, with an effective date of Februax7 6, 1989, and supersedes
all prevtous edittons.
The 1989 edition of this standard has been approved by the American National
Standards Institute.
Changes otrter trtau editorial are indicated by a vertical rule in the margin of the pa~es
on whtch they appear. These lines axe mcluded as an a,d to the user in identifying changes
From the previous edition.
Orilin and Development of NFPA 13D
Recognizing the need to reduce the annul life loss from fire in residehUng occupancies
(about $0 percent of total loss of life by fire), the Committee on Automauc Spunklets
appointed a subcommittee tn May i973 to prepare a Standard on the installation of
Spnnkier Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwelling and Mobile Homes. The Suitore-
rnmee was composed of members of the Committee on Automatic Sprinklers and other
technically competent experu. The standard was submitted and adopted at the Annual
Meetinl in Chicato, IL on May 12-16, 1975.
The 1980 edition was a complete rewrite of the 1975 edition indudinl SI units where
appropriate. The 1980 edition incorporated the results of the residential spnnkier test
program administered by the National Fire Protection Alsoclarion. and funded by a
research lrant from the United States Fire Administration, Factory Mutual Resean:h
Corporation. and the Los Angeles City Fire Department conducted the dweilinI tests.
Factory Mutual Research Corporation. McNeary Insurance ConsultinI Serm, ices and the
Charlotte, North Carolina Fire Department conducted the moiretie home tesu.
After laininl practical experience with the 1980 edition, modifications to the standard,
inciudinl removal of desgin parameters for dry-pipe systems, were made in the 1984
edition.
The i989 edition provides for the recolnttion of antifreeze systems, an update on the
~ire losses tn one- and two-family dwelling, and otters new luidance for positions8 of
residentsag sprmklers on sloped and beamed celling. Requirements have also been
provided for the installation of residential spnnklers tn hilit-temperature arm.
13D-2
ZNSTALLAT[0N OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TwO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOBILE HOMES
Committee on Water Extinguishing Systems
Correlating Committee
Paul D. Smith, Chairman
Gaec-nalx;ock & Associates Inc.
Robert E. Solomon, 3tcretary
Natsonai Fire Protecc:on A$iociatloB
(,"'~onvotln~
Wayne F. Ault, Roll .fensen & Assoc:ates Inc.
Thomas j. 8town Jr., Fac:ory Mutual Research Corp.
Caslmir j. Drygas Jr., M&M Protection Consultants
Richard Martineau. Mid Hudson Automatic Sprin-
kler Corp.
Robert H. Merz, Moorestown, NJ
James W. Nolan, Jame4 W. Nolan Co.
Chester W. Scbitmar, Schirmer En~neenn2 Corp.
Technical Committee on Automatic Sprinklers
Chester W. Schirmer, Chatrman
Scbirmer Enl~nnennI Corp.
Stephen R. H~vof, Secrttary
Kernper Group
(Alternate to H. Winchell)
Edward C. Bacon, Dept. of Public Safety
Rap. F]v(ANA
Charles B. Barnett. Automatic Sprinkler Corp. of
Anletlca
Rap. NFSA
Albert M. Comly, Jr., Curtis Cox Kennedy
Rcp. AIA
Thomas G. Daly, Hilton Hotels Corp.
Rap. AHMA
John L DeRon, Union Carbide Corp.
ROp. NFPA IFPS
[4e J. DosedIn, Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
James R. Dowling, NatL Aisn. Of Home Builders
(vote Limited to 1312) and tJR)
Robert ~r. Duke, Fire Control Inc.
Robert J. Gray, Fire Spat., lnc.
Rap. AFSA
W. David Hilton, Cobb Count), Fire DqIL
ROp. [AFC
Richud E. Hughe/, t$O Commercial Risk $e. rvic~
ROll H. Jansen, !~lf / & AsSOciates Inc.
Kenneth W. Linde, Industrial Risk hauten
B. J. Lukes, Gnnnell Fat Protection System Co. Ltd.
Rap. CASA
Wayne M. Ma,,lin, Los Angles Cit7 Fire Dept.
John G. O'Neill, Gage-Babcock & Associates Inc.
j. IL Richardsen, Nad. Research Council of Canada
[. J. Schiraauer, Eastman Kodak Co.
J. Tom Smitlk US Fire Administration
(Vote Limited to 13D and 13R)
Willie R. Tempiin, American Automatic Sprinkler,
Inc.
Rop. AFSA
William L T, ste, Grinnell Fire PmL Systems Co. inc.
Rap. NBA
Job J. Walsk United AsSa. of Journeymen 8c Ap-
prentices of the Plumbing & Pipe FiniaI Ind. of the
WIJIiIII D.
WUIIsm F_ Wilrox, Factory Mutual P4RNch Corp.
Hgt"~ IL Wlacbdl, Liberty Mutu,d Inswince Co.
Pep.
]L J. Wt~lht, Underwriters Loboratories
D. M. Y~tlu, ICi Americas Inc.
Rap, NFPA
Lawis H, Zimmermsa& Addl/a Automatic Sprin-
kler Co.
Kep. NFSA
PERSO.', ', EL 13 D- ]
~ f AIIII~ FactOry..~Ut.u~ Researct~
(Altertrite tO W E. Wilcox)
D~,, R. ~ Dow Chemscll
iAZtemale :0 J, L
Tomm~ [. [aliuL [naustfi~ R~s~
David O. arias, Cc~er ~or Fire
Russell P. Flemla& Nail. Fire SpnnEler ~ssn.
iAlTemate co w Tesu)
~ E. ~cL L'~de~ten ~mton, Inc.
rAZ~e~ate to L, ~ Do~ol
EdM L ~st~ ~'nde~nte~ ~ton~ of Can-
(ARamaic ~o K. J. Wnpt}
C~E V. ~ Xerox
(Alternate ~o D. M. Y~I21
(Alternate to g. J.
~. I. ~ala~. Natt. ~m~
(Alternate to J. ~ Rxc~ar~n}
AJllrlllll
.~hu'~le M, He-welL Mixwell I, Leareton Arc~ztecs
(Altemate s0 J. O.
Frtaae J. Mlkt~cL Eutm~ ~ Co.
(Attema~ to t. J.
J~a G. N~ S. P~u F~ D~t.
(A~temlte ~o E. C.
~ W. O'~ ~mmcr Ea~nunnl Co~.
{ARamaic to C. w.
Jm ~ ~e VikxaI Co~.
(Alternate to C.
H~ S~, led. A~. a[ Fi~ Chxe(s
(Alte~ to W. David Halve)
J~ ~. ~ Aummuc Sprinkler Co,
(Alte~a m L Zimm~)
Jm v~ he Shma Co~.
J~ F. v~ H~ Spnakle. Inc.
(~ta mw.
wlb ~ ~ ~lf Jm l ~sm Inc.
SukomminN on Residential
Jcls G. O~dlL Clms,Ree
Gip-k_-h'~_k & Au~-~ates [ac.
[d~..l IL kdalek. Hqan Asaoc.
[.aM t. CamllmtL RsliaMa AutOmUC Spn-blet
Co. lac.
Jm L DeeUal, Nail. Ant of Horn ImMera
IJcMnl Z. H.Ilff, lSO Commmedl It~ 5errtin
Rallm Jsclm& Albtm [~ Co.
Xsiq-Cksl ~ Feaory MuM ~ Corp.
C,,eq, L LsNfkl t.raaenmtan Laborstones inc.
M ~ Marylud Fire Eqmpment Corpo-
J. IL I1~"- ',~ FiR Riseera Council of Cm
Xarn $1mm, led. ASa8, Of Fire
J. Tee Smltlk US Fire Admmtma
wlglsm L Tel& GmmeU Fee, Prmeasoa System
Ca.
wlUIBm A, i Rail' ,reas~ --d AU4X:.
i L ~ NFPA SIll LAa,san
l~l: IUt ~*Jtntt tim memMs~a~ at tke ttmt tl~t Commiteft ~ ~lOt~ on t~t text o/tAu$ ~uon. $t~e tn~
ttmt c~n~ m tM m~kip may M~ ~
NOT[: MmDef2ip ol a Commmee simi not so and of ttsetf conltxtuts xa e~doneme~t of the
Auc~ataon or 1By ctoeummtt ~elom ~ me CommateN on wmca ~ mem~r ~
13D-4
TNSTALL~TION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOBII..~ HOMES
Contents
Preface ...................................................... 13D- 5
Chapter I General Information ................................. ; . .13D- 5
L-i Scope ................................................... 13D- 5
Z-2 Purpose ................................................. 13D- 5
1-3 Definitions ............................................... 13D- 5
1-4 .'~fatntenance ............................................. 13D- 6
[-5 Design and Installation ..................................... 13D- 6
I-6 Units ................................................... 13D- 6
Chapter 2 Water Supply ......................................... 13D- 7
2-1 General Provisions ......................................... 13D- 7
2-2 Water Supply Sources ....................................... 13D- 7
2-3 Multipurpose Piping System .................................. 13D- 7
2-4 Mobile Home Water Supply .................................. 13D- 7
Chapter 3 System Components .................................... 13D- 7
3-1 Valves and Drains ......................................... 13D- 7
3-2 Pressure Gages ............................................ 13D- 7
3-3 Piping .................................................. 1313- 7
3-4 Piping SuppGrz ............................................ 13D- 8
3-5 Sprinklers ............................................... 13D- 8
3-6 Alarms .................................................. 13D- 8
Chapter 4 System Design ........................................ 13D- 8
4-1 Design Criteria ........................................... 13D- 8
4-:2 Position of Sprinklers ....................................... 1313- 9
4-3 System Types ............................................. 13D- 9
4-4 Pipe Sizing ............................................... 13D-I0
4-5 Piping Configurations ....................................... 13I>=11
4-6 Location of Sprinklers ...................................... 13D-I 1
Chapter 5 Referenced Publications ................................. 131}-12
Appendix A '. .................................................. 13D-12
Appendix B Referenced PubUcations ................................ 13D-18
Zndex ........................................................ 13D-19
~ geg Eamon
GENER.AL f',F~RMArlO~
NFPA 13D
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
One- and Two-Family Dwellings
and Mobile Homes
1989 Edition
NOTICE: -~n asterisk ( 'l foliowinI the number or letter destlnat-
tag a paragraph indicates explanatory material on that paragraph an
.~,ppendix A.
Information on referenced publications can be found in Chapter
5 and -~ppendax B.
Preface
It is ~ntended that this standard provide a method for
those Individuals wishing to install a spnnkler system for
additional life safety and property protection. It ks not the
purpose of this standard to require the installation of an
automatic spnnkler system. This standard assumes that one
or more smoke detectors will be installed in accordance
with NFPA 7,t. Standard for the/nard/litton..~latntenance.
and C~e o/Household Fi/;e ~4~rntng Equipment
Chapter I General Information
i-!' Scope. This standard deals with the design and in-
stallation of automatic spnnkler systems for protection
against the fire hazards in one- and two-family dwellings
and moUde homes.
I-2' Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide a
spnnkler system that will aid in the detection and control of
resadenual fires and thus provide improved protection
against Injury. life loss. and property damale. A spnnklet
system mstatled tn accordance with this standard is expect-
cd to prevent flashover (total involvement} in the room of
fire ortgm. when sprinklered, and to improve the chance for
occupants to escape or be eviclilted.
Guidelines are established for the design and installalton
of sprmkler system for one- and two.-family dwellings and
mobile homes. Nothinl in this standard is rotended to
restrict new technolol~es or alternate arranlements prorid-
ins the Level of safety prescribed by the standard is not
lowered.
1-3' Definitions.
Approved. Acceptable to the "authority havin$ junKiic-
lion."
NOTE: The National Fire Protection Ass4xzatlon doe~ not
approve. mslx'ct or certify any mstaLIlttons, procedures,
equipment. or materials nor does it approve or evaluate
testaI lalx)ratorles. [n deterrattanI the acceptabs[|ty of
installations or'procedures, equipment or matenaiL the
authority having jurisdiCtiOn may base acceptance on corn-
13D-5
plnance wuth NFPA or other appropriate standards, In the
absence of such standatoLL said authority ma? require e~-
dence of proper assdilation. procedure or use. The authort t~'
hav mI Jurt,sd~ctlon may also refer to the rituals or tibetrag
practices of an orpnitdltion concerned wtU1 preduct evaiua-
Irons which tS in a p0sltlon tb deterstire romp|lance wtth
ag~proprtate standards for the current production of listed
items.
Authority HavinI Jurisdiction. The "authority having
jurisdiction" is the organization. ol~ce or Individual re-
sponsible for "approvm$" equipment. an installation or a
procedure.
NOTE: The phrase "authority havlnljunsdiction" is used
in NFPA dcx:uments in a broad manner since Junsdictlons
and "approval" alencies vary. as do their responssbdmes.
Where public safety ts primary. the "authority harms juns-
diction" may be a federal. state. local or ather regional
department or individual such u a life chief. fire marshal.
chief of a Rre prevention bureau. labor department. health
department. buddinI o~ctai. eleclncai inspector. or others
hav~nl $tatulot7 authority. For ~nsuflnce purposes. an insur-
ance Inspection department, rating bureau or other msur-
ante company represen~tive may be the "authority ha~un!
jurisdiction." In many circumstances the property ~v,-~er or
his destlnated qent aaumes the role of the "authority
havinl jurisdiction"; at Ioverament inssaJlatmns. the cot~*
mandinI o~cer or departmental official may be the "author-
~ty having
Check Valve. A valve which allows flow in one direction
only.
Control Valve." A valve employed to control (shuU a
supply of water to a spnnkler system.
Desip Discharp. Rate of water discharged by an auto-
mattc spnnkler expressed in gallons per mtnute.
Dry System. A system employinS automatic sprinklers
attached to a pipinS system contamm$ air under atmos-
pheric ot higher pressures. Loss of pressure from the open-
in$ of a spnnkler or detection of a fire condition causes the
release of water into the pipinS system and out the opened
spnnkler.
DwelUal. Any buildin$ which contains not more tha~
one or two "dwellin$ units" intended to be used. renteeL.
leased, let or hired out to be occupied. or whtcl~ are
occupied for habitation purposes. ~.
DwelliN UaiL One or more rooms arranged for the use
of one or more individual livin$ together as In a smgte
housekeepin$ unit. normally havin$ cooking, hvmg, sam-
tary, and s~eepin$ facilities.
tANled, Equipment or materials to which has beer
attached a label, symbol or other identtt'yin$ mark of ar
orlanization acceptable to the "authority having Junsdzc
lion" and concerned with product evaluation. that magn
rains periodic inspection of productson of labeled cqukr~
meat or materials and by whose labeling the manuf-',ct urc
indicates compliance with appropriate standards or penur
mance m a speciaed manner.
Listed. Equipment or materials mctudcd
lashed by an orpmzatton acceptable co the
13D-6
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER. SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOBILE HOMES
having jurisdiction" and concerned with product evalua-
tion, that maintains periodic inspection of production of
listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either
that the equipment or material meets appropriate standards
or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified
manner.
NOTE: The means for :den::f.'.mg hsted equipment may
~ary rbr each orgamzatLon concerned wath product evalun-
g:on, some of which do not recognize equipment as listed
untess ~t is also Labeled. The "authority having jurisdiction"
should utilize the s>stem employed by the listing or~niu-
non to identify a listed product.
.~lobile Home. A factory-assembled structure equipped
with service connections and made so as to be readily
movable as a unit on its running gear and designed to be
used as a dwelling unit with or without a foundation.
.~lultipurpose Piping Systems. Piping systems within
dwellings and mobile homes intended to serve both domes-
tic and fire protection needs.
Preengineered System. A packaged sprinkler system in-
cluding all components connected to the water supply
designed to be ins[ailed according to protested limitations.
Pump. A mechanical device that transfers and/or raises
the pressure of a fluid (water).
Residential Sprinkler. An automatic sprinkler which
has been specifically listed for use in residential occupan-
ctes.
Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.
Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is
advised but not required.
Sprinkler--Automatic. A fire suppression device which
operates automatically when its heat-actuated element is
heated to or above its thermal rating allowing water to
discharge over a specific area.
Sprinkler System. An integrated system of piping con-
nected to a water supply, with listed sprinklers that will
automatically initiate water discharge over a fire area.
when required, the sprinkler system also includes a control
,dive and a device for actuating an alarm when the system
operates.
Standard. A document containing only mandatory pro-
visions using the word "shall" to indicate requirements.
Explanatory material may be included only in the form of
"~ne print" notes, in footnotes, or in an Appendix.
Supply Pressure. Pressure within the supply (i.e., city or
private supply water source).
System Pressure. A pressure within the system (i.e.,
above the control valve).
W'ater~ow Alarm. A sounding device activated by a
waterflow detector or alarm check valve and arranged to
sound an alarm that will be audible in all living areas over
background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
Waterflow Detector. An electric signaling indicator or
alarm check valve actuated by water flow in one direction
only.
Wet System. A system employing automatic sprinklers
attached to a piping system containing water and connected
to a water supply so that water discharges immediately from
spnnklers opened by a fire.
1-4' Maintenance. The owner is responsible for the con-
dition of a spnnkler system and shall keep the system in
normal operating condition.
1-5 Design and Installation.
1-5.1 Devices and MateriaLs.
1-5.1.1' Only new residential sprinklers shall be employed
in the installation of spnnkler systems.
'~1-5.1.2 Only listed and approved devices and approved
materials shall be used in sprinkler systems.
Exception: Listing may be waXred for tan~, pumps. hang-
ers, waterflow detection devices, and waterflow valvu.
1-5.1.3 Preengineered systems shall be installed within the
limitations which have been established by the testing
laboratories where listed.
.
-5.1.4' All systems shall be tested for leakage at normal
system operating water pressure.
Exception.' When a fire department pum r connection is
provided, hydrostatic pressure test~ sh~f~e provided in
accordance wlth NFP~i 13, Standard for the Installation of
Spnnkler Systems.
14 Units. Metric units of measurement in this standard
are in accordance with the modernized metric system
known as the International System of Units (SI). Two units
(liter and bar), outside of but recognized by SI, are corn-
monly used in international fare protection. These umts are
listed in Table 1-6 with conversion factors.
Table 1-6
Name of Unit Unit Symbol Conyonion Fro:tot
liter L I gel = 3.785 L
pascal PI I psi = 6894.757
bar bar I psi - 0.0689 bar
bar. bar I bar - 105 Pa
For additional convers:ons and information see ASTM E3S0, Standard for
Metric t~racttce.
14.1 If a value for measurement as given in this standard
is followed by an equivalent value in other units, the ant
stated is to be regarded as the requirement. A given equiva-.
lent value may be approximate.
1-6.2 The conversion procedure for the SI units has been
to multiply the quantity by the conversion factor and then
round the result to the appropriate number of significant
digits.
~,.~TER. SL'P/~Y StSTE~ COM/~O~ENTS
13D-'
Chapter 2 Water Supply
General Provisions. Every autosdisc spnnKler system
snaZl ha'.e at least one automane water suppry. w'hen stored
~ater is -sod as t~e sole source of supply. the mmamum
:~antzt; snail e~ual the water ~eman~ rate t~mes [0 sin-
Z-2' Water Suppl.v Sources, The follows8 water suppiy
sources are acceptable:
la~ .-% connection to a reliable water works system.
ib) ~n e~evated tank.
ic) .A. pressure tank installed in accordance with NFPA
13. Standard/br the [nxtatiatton of Sprinkler Systems, and
NFP.~. 22. S:andard/br ~ter Tank. s for Private Fire Protee-
I d) .~ stored water source with an automatically operated
pump.
2-3' Multipurpose Pipinl System, A piping system serv-
zig both sprmkter and domestic needs shall be acceptable
when:
(a)' [n common water supply connections serving more
than one clwelling unit. 5 gpm (t9 L/mrs) is added to the
spnnkter system demand to determine the size of common
piprag and the s=ze of the total water supply requirements.
(b) Smoke detectors are provided in accordance wxh
N FPA 74. Standard for the Installalton. Maintenance. and
Use o/' Ho~enotd Fire ~&rmng Equipment.
(c) .~.11 piprag in the system conforms to the piprag
specxftcat~ons of thts standard.
1<3) Permmed by the total plumbing or health authority.
24 .Mobile Home Water Supply. A water supply for a
spnnklered dwelling manufactured off-site shall not be less
than that spect~ed on the manufacturer's nameplate. [See
4-4. j/k/E. vceptzon.]
Chapter 3 System Components
3-1.3 Additional drains shall be znstalled for each trappeel
pomon of a dry system which ts subject to rreez|ng temper-
atures.
3-2 Pressure Gales.
3-2.1 A. pressure gale shall be installed to indicate ;ztr
pressure on dry systems anct on water supply pressure tanks.
3-3 Piping.
3-3.1 P~pe or ~ube used m spnnk[er systems shah be of the
materials m Table 3-3. [ or m accordance with 3-3.3 through
3-3.~. The chem|cal proposes. ph.vs~cal proposes. anct
dimensions of the materials listeel m Table 3-3. l shall ~e ~c
least equivalent to the stanctards c~ted ~n the table and
designed to withstand a working pressure of not [ess man
t75 ps~ (t2. t bars).
Table 3.3.1
Mated=as and Dimesgibes
Spec~catmn For Welded and
Seamless Steel Pipe
Wroulm-Steel Pipe
Specifications for Electric*Resistance
Welded Steel Pipe
Copper Tube tDrawn. Seamless)
Spe:~cat|on for Seamless Copper Tube
Spect~cauon for Seamless
Copper water Tube
Specification For General Reclmrements
for Wroupt Seamless Copper and
Copper*Alloy Tube
Braxml Filler Metal (ClassaScation
BCuP-3 or BCuP-4)
Specaficat=on for Solder Metal,
9~-5 (Tin-Antimony-Grade 95TA)
Scandud
~STM A 5 3
ANSI B36. t0~t
ASTM AI3~
ASTM B75
~,STM B88
-XSTM 825 t
-~W5
-~STM B]:
3*.3,2 Other types of pipe or tube may be used. but only
those investigated and tasted for this service by a testing anc~
inspection agency laboratory.
:, 3-I Valves and Drains.
· 3..i.1 Each system shall hive I sinlie control valve ar-
ranged to shut oil both the domestic and spnnkler systems.
and a separate shutoil' valve for the domestic system only.
E.rcepuon No. i: The sprtnlder system piping may have a
separate control vaJvt where Supraised b,v one o/t~teJOilow-
tng methods.'
ra) Central station, proprietary, be remote station alarm
servzce.
~b; Local alarm service that will catat th~ soundin8 of an
audible signal at a constantly attended pomt. or
re/Locking the valves open.
Exception .Vo. 2: .4 separate shutoff vdlve ts not reqlared for
the domesize water supply tn multipurpose piping systems.
3,-I .2 Each spnnkler system shall have a z~ in. ( t 3 ram) or
tarSet dram and test connection with valve on the system
s~de of the control 'valve.
3*.3.3 Whenever the word pipe is used in this standard.
shall be understood to also mean tube.
3*.3.4 Schedule 10 steel pipe may be joined wattI mechani-
cal groove couplings approved for service with grooves
toiled on the pipe by an approved groove rolling sicrime.
3-3,5 Fittinls used in sprinkler systems shah be of the
materials listed in Table 3-3.5 or in accordance w:th 3-3.7.
The chemical properties, physical properties, and dgmen-
sions of the materials tasted in Table 3-3J shall be at least
equivalent to the standards cited in the table. Fhttngs used
in spnnkler systems shall be destined to withstand the
workinI pressures involved, but not less than t 75 psi ~ t 2. L
bars} cold water pressure.
3.3.1 Joints for the connection of copper tube shall be
brazed.
Exception: Soldered/beats/95-5 solder metal/-mat .~e .,
for wet.pipe copper tube systems.
3/
13D-8
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS {N ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOilL~ I"[OME~
Table 3-3.5
Materials and Dimensions Standard
Cast iron
Cast Iron Threac~ec~ Fittings.
Class ~25 ancl 250 ..................... ANSI B16.4
Cast Iron Pipe F[anges
and Fhnged Fitungs ............... ANSI BIO. 1
Malleable iron
Malleable Iron Threaded Fittings,
C;a~s [50 and 300 ..................... ANS[ BIO.3
Steel
Factory-made Wrought Steel
Buttweld Fittings ...................... ANSI B 16.9
Buttwelding Ends for Pipe, Valves,
Flanges, and Fittings ................... ANSI B16.25
Spec. for Piping Fittings of Wrought
Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for
Moderate and Elevated Temperatures ....... ASTM A234
Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings,
Steel Nickel Alloy and Other Special Alloys .. ANSI B I6.5
Forged Steel Fittings, Socket Welded
and Threaded .. ....................... ANSI B 16.11
Copper
Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy
Solder-Joint Pressure Fittings ............. ANSI B 16.22
Cast Copper Alloy Solder-Joint
Pressure Fittings ...................... ANSI B 16. t 8
3-3.7 Other types of fittings may be used, but only those
investigated and listed for this service by a testing and
inspection agency laboratory.
3--4 Piping Support.
3-4.1 Piping shall be supported from structural members
using.support methods comparable to those required by
local plumbing codes. Equipment.
ExcepnOn.' Listed piping shah be supported in accordance~
wttn any//sting/imttanons. ~"7 ~
Chapter 4
3-4.2 Piping laid on open joists or rafters shall be secured
to prevent Lateral movement.
3-5 Sprink"lers,
3-5.1 Listed residential sprinklers shall be used, The basis
of such a listing shall be tests to establish the ability of the
sprinklers to control residential ares under standardized fire
:est conditions. The standardized room fires shall be based
on a residential array of furnishings and
Exception No. 1: Residential sprinklers shall not
dry systems unless specifically listed for that purpose.
Excepu'on No. 2: Listed dry sprinklers may be used in
accordance ~vuh 4-3.2.
3-5.2 Ordinary temperature rated residential sprinklers
r, 35 to t 70'F (57 to 77'C)] shall be installed where maxi-
L~
mum ambient ceiling temperatures do not exceed 100'F
(38'C).
3-5.3 Intermediate rated residential sprinklers [175 to
225'F (79 to t07'C)] shall be installed where maximum
ambient ceiling temperatures are between 101 and 150'F
(39 and 66'C).
3-5.4 The following practices shall be observed when
installing residential sprinklers, unless maximum expected
ambient temperatures are otherwise determined.
(a) Sprinklers under glass or plastic skylights exposed to
direct rays of the sun shall be of intermediate temperature
classification.
(b) Sprinklers in an unventilated concealed space under
uninsulated roof, or in an unventilated attic, shall be of
intermediate temperature classification.
3-5.5 Operated or damaged sprinklers shall be replaced
with sprinklers having the same performance characteristics
as original equipment.
3-5.6 Painting and Ornamental Finishes.
3-5.6,1' Sprinkler frames may be factory painted or
enameled as ornamental finish in accordance with 3-5.6.2;
otherwise sprinklers shall not be painted and any sprinklers
that have been painted, except for factory applied coatings,
shall be replaced with new listed sprinklers.
3-5,6,2. Ornamental finishes 'shall not be applied to sprin-
klers.by anyone other than the sprinkler manufacturer, and
only sprinklers listed with such finishes shall be used.
3-5,7 When nonmetallic sprinkler ceiling plates (escutch-
cons) or recessed escutcheons (metallic or nonmetallic) are
used they shall be listed based on tests of the assembly as a
residential sprinkler.
Exception: Dwelling$ or mobile homes having smokt detec.
tots in accordance with NFPA 74. Standard for the'Installa-
lion, Maintenance, and Use of Household Fire Warning
System Design
4.1 Design Criteria.
4-1,1 Design Discharge, The system shall provide a dis-
Charge of not less than 18 gpm (68 Idmm) to any single
operating sprinkler and not less than 13 gpm (49 Iimin) per
sprinkler to the number of design spnnklers.
4-1.2' Number of Design Sprinklers. The number of de-
sign spnnklers shall include all sprinklers within a compart-
ment to a maximum of two sprinklers.
4-1.2.1 The definition of compartment for use in 4-1.2 to
determine the number of design spnnklers is a space that is
completely enclosed by walls and a ceiling. The compart-
ment enclosure may have openings to an adjoining space if
the openings have a minimum lintel depth of 8 in. (203 ram)
from the ceiling.
4-1.3 Water Demand. The water demand for the system
shall be determined by multiplying the design discharge of
4-1.1 by the number of design spnnklcrs o~ 4-1.2.
, . -,. ' ,~.3C~
SYSTEM OESIGN
13D-,~
4-1.4 Sprinkler Coverale.
4.1,4. l Residential spnnklers shall be spaced so that the
max:mum area protected b.v a szhg~e spnnkter does not
exceed i 44 sq ft ( 13.4 m:).
water solutions of pure glycenne (C.P. or L'-S.P. 965
percent trade) or propylene iiycoi shall not t~e permitted.
Suitable ~ycenne-water and propylene tlyco[-v, ater mr'-
turns are shown in Table 4-3.3.3. t.
4ol.4.2 The maxxmurn distance between sprinklers shall
noc exceed 12 ft 13" m) on or Oetween pipehans and the
maxlethe ~zscance ~o a ~11 or parnt~on shah not exceed
6 ft r l ~ m~ T~e m~mmum ~utance ~etween spnnK[ers
w~t~n a tompar:meat snail ~e ~ ft ~2.4 m).
4-1,5 The mmtmum operatea pressure of any spnnkler
snail be m accordance wnh the hstmg reformarea of the
spnnklet and provide the mmlmum flow rates specified
4-1,6 Application rates, design areas, areas of coverage,
and minimum design pressures other than those specified in
4-1.[, 4-1.2, 4-1.4, and ,a,-l.5 may be used with special
spnnklers which have been listed for such specific residen-
tial mstallatton conditions.
4-2 Position of Sprinklers.
4-2,1 Pendent and upright spnnklen shall be positioned
so that the deflectors are within I to 4 in, (25.4 to 102 ms)
from the ceiling,
Exception' Special residential sprinklers shall be in.fin/led
rn accordance wet& the/~sttng liraelations.
4-2,2 Sidewail spnnklers shall be positioned so that the
deflectors are w~thin 4 to 6 in. (102 to t52 ms} from the
cetlinl.
E.~cept~on.' Special ~extdenttat sprinklers shall be installed
in accordance with the hating hmttattoAs.
4-2.3' Spnnklers shall be positioned so that the response
time and discharge are not unduly affected by obstructions
such as telling slope, beams. or tight 6xtures.
,I-3 System Tyler.
4-3.1 Wet-Pipe System. A wet-pipe system shall be used
when all pipinI is Installed in areas not subject to freez~nl.
4-3.2 Dry-Pipe System. Where system pipinI is lcx:ated
in unheated areas subject to freezinl. a dry-pipe or anti-
freeze system shall be used.
E.vcepnon: Listed standard d)'y,!lendent or dry ,dewall
sprinklers maybe e3ctended ~nto unheated areas not intended
/br living purlloses.
4-3,3 Andlkulll Stems.
4-3.3.1' Deftsilks. An antifreeze system is one employing
automatic sprinklers attached to a pipinI system containmI
an ant~freeze solution and connected to a water supply. The
annfreeze solution. followed by water. discharles immedi-
ately from spnnklen opened by a fire.
4-3.3.2' Where Used. The use ofantifreeze solutions shall
be m conforrntty with any state or local health reguLattons.
4-3.3.3 Antifreeze Seludens.
4-3.3.3.1 When spnnkler systems are supplied by public
water connections the use of anttfreeze soluttons other than
Table 4-3.1.3.1 Antiflea Selut~ee$
to be Used if hblic wttet is Conheeled to Spfinklen
Solution
Malerid (by ~,~lemnl
Giycenne 50~ water
C.P. or U.S.P. Grade' a4~ water
30% water
Hydrometer Scale
Propyiene Glycot 7~ Water
6~ Water
5~ Water
Slam:i~'c Freeze
Gravity at hint
643'F (15.6'C1 'F 'C
1.133
I.t~i -:2 -300
1,165 -.~0
1027
1.034 - 6 . - 2
t.04i -26 -32.2
443~ Water i.04S - 60
Hydrometer Sole 1.000 to t.200 (SulMivxsaons 0.0021
'C.P. ---Chemica/ly Purr
U.l.P.--Umtecl Sum ~poea 96.tqk.
4-33,3,2 If public water as not conne~ed to spnnklers, the
commercially available materials indicated in Tabte
4=3.3.3.2 ate suitable for use m antifreeze solutions,
4=3,3.3,3' An antifreeze solution shall be prepared with a
freezinI point below the expected mmimum temperature
for the locality, The specific gravity of the prepared solution
shall be checked by a hydrometer with suitable scale,
'Glycenne
Diethylene Glycol
Table 4-aJj, Z Aatffrwza Solutions
to be Used if hidIt Wstet is not Coinnoel to Sirenkith
SIm:iae Freestag
Selmtea Grm, ily el hint
(by volere) ~'F (IS.6'C) 'F 'C
Illlye'fine ts used, see Tab|e 4-3.3,3.
50~ Wast 1.078 - t 3 -
45% Water t.081 - 27 -
40% Water t.086 -42
Hydrometer Scale 1.000 to t. 120 {SulMivuaons 0.002}
Ethylene Glyco4 61% Water 1.056 ~ - tO - :3
S6®& wmr IO63 - :0 - 28 *
5t% Water t.069 = 30
47% Water i.073 - J.O
Hydrometer Scale !.000 to t. t Z0 eSulMIvnsmns
Propyieae Glycei if prop~leue liycol .s used. see Tatne .~-
Lb CaClt pet
lai of Water
2.83 i83
3.38 it:
3.89
4.37
4.73 :
493 '
*Frt, I fl~l~ ~a CltkN'lde aad OIMr
13D-10
INSTALLAT[ON OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND
4-3.3.4' Arrangement of Supply Piping and Valves. All
permitted antifreeze solutions are heavier than water. At the
point of contact (interface) the heavier liquid will be below
the lighter liquid in order to prevent diffusion &water into
the unheated areas. In most cases, this necessitates the use
of a 5-ft (1.5-m) drop pipe or U-loop as illustrated in Figure
4-3.3.4. The preferred arrangement is to have the sprinklers
below the interface between the water and the antifreeze
solution.
If sprinklers are above the interface, a check valve with a
v3:-in. {0.8-ram) hole in the clapper shall be provided in the
U-loop. A water control valve and two small solution test
valves shall be provided as illustrated in Figure 4-3.3.4. An
acceptable arrangement of a filling cup is also shown.
Filling CuD ,
Water Sag0iv "~
"~ ~,~ ~ ~ Note: Char Valve May 80
~' ;~, Omi~ea When $Orinkle~
~ ' ~ ~ A · 801~ Levi Of Val · A
', ,
OrO~ 5 h, Aggt6vld A
Min. [ndiC/tinl '~ ~ UNHEATED
HEATED
.
Ch~k Valve
Ormin Valve
NOTE: The %:-in. (0.8-ram) hole in the check valve clap-
per ts needed to allow expansion or the solution during a
temperature rise and thus prevent damage to sprinkler
heads.
For SI Units: Im. :, 25.4 rnrn: Ift -, 0.3048 m.
Figure 4-3.3.4 Arrangement of Supply Piping and Valves.
4-3.3.5' Testing. Before freezing weather each year, the
solution in the entire system shall be emptied into conve-
ment conearners and brouglu to the proper specific gravity
by adding concentrated liquid as needed. The resulting
solenon may be used to refill the system.
44 Pipe Sizing.
4-4.1 Piping shall be sized in accordance with 4-4.3 and
-t-4.4. If more than one design discharge is required (see
4-/. I}, the pipe sizing procedure shall be repeated for each
design discharge.
TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOBILE HOMES
Exception: When piping is sized hydraulically, calculations
shah be made in accordance with the methods described in
zVFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
44.2 Minimum Pipe Size.
44.2.1 Minimum pipe size, including copper piping, shall
be :/, in. (19 ram).
Exception: Mrinimum size of steel pipe shall be 1 in. (25.4
4-43, To size piping for system connected to a city water
supply, the following approximate method is acceptable.
This procedure cannot be used for gridded or looped type
systems. Hydraulic calculation procedures in accordance
with Chapter 7 of NFPA 13 for grid-type or looped system
shall be used.
(a) Establish system flow rate in accordance with Section
(b) Determine water pressure in the street.
(c) Select pipe sizes.
(d) Deduct meter pressure losse~ if any. [See Table
4-4.3(d). ]
(e) Deduct pressure loa for elevation. (Building height
above street in ft × 0.434 - psi.) (Building height above
street in meters x 0.098 - bars.)
(f) Deduct pressure los__ees from the city main to the
inside control valve by multiplying the factor from Table
4--4.3(a) or (b) by the total length(s) of pipe in ft (m). [Total
length includes equivalent length of fittings u determxued
by applying Table 44.3(c).]
(g) Deduct pressure losses for piping within building by
multiplying factor from Table 4-4.3(a) or (b) by the total
length in ft (m) of each size of pipe between the control
valve and the farthest sprinkler.
(h) Deduct valve and fitting pressure losses.. Count' the
valves and fittings from the control valve to the farthest
sprinkler. Determine the equivalent length for ear. h valve
and fitting as shown in Table 4-4.3(c) and add these values
to obtain the total equivalent length foe each pipe size.
Multiply the equivalent length for each size by the factor
from Table 4-4.3(a) or (b) and total these values.
(i) In multilevel buildings, steps (a) through (b) shall be
repeated to size piping for each floor.
O) If the remaining pressure is less than the operating
pressure established by the testing laboratory for the sprin-
kler being used, a redesign is necessary. If this pressure is
higher than required, smaller piping may be used when
justified by calculations.
Table 4-4.3(a)
Pipe Size
in. 10 12 14 16 18 20
! 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.09 0. el 0.13
I,/, 0.01 0.0t 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03
l*/: O.0l 0.0t 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02
2 ..... 0.01
Pressme LotMs (psi/re) Schedule 40 Steel PiN. C = 120
Flow Rate - GPM
For SI Unzts: t gat - 3.785 L; I pn - 0.0689 ban Ift - 0.3048 m.
25 30 35 40 45 50
0,20 0.28 0.37 0.47 0.58 0.71
0.05 0.07 O. lO 0.12 0.15 0.19
0.02 0.03 0.05 ' 0.06 0.07 0.09
0.01 0.0l 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03
~989 Ea, t,on
SYSTEM e'JESIG", 13D-::
Tubgel Type
Size m.
M
L
L
K.
L
L -
L -
K -
Far Sl L,n~ts: L ta~. ' ~T85 L,
Table 44.3~b)
psi
!0
o o8
ozo
? ,.):
003
0.01
0.0l
0.01
Pressure Losses (pei/ft) Copper Tablet--Types K. L A .%t. C :. I~0
Flow Rate - GP%!
I 2 14 16 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 .~0
0.1: 0.16 0.:O 0:-~ 0.30 9..a,6 084 085 - -
0.14 0 Ill 0.23 0.29 035 0.53 0.75 tOO - -
O. L8 024 0.30 038 046 069 0.97 t28 - -
003 004 0.06 0.07 008 013 0.18 02.$ 030 038
0.04 0.0S 0.06 0.08 O.tO O. t5 0.20 0.27 0.35 0-~3
004 0.06 0.07 009 0. el 0 t7 0.24 0.31 0..$0 050
0.01 002 0.02 0.03 003 0.05 0.07 0.09 0. el 0. t5
0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.07 O. tO 0.12 O. t6 0
0.01 0,02 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.08 O, l l 0.13 O. t7 0 20
0.01 0.0t 0.0t 0.01 GOt 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 008
0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 O.Ol O.OZ 0,03 0.04 0.05 0 O? O
0.01 0.01 O.Ol 0.01 002 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.06 0.07 O 09
..... 0.01 0.01 O.Ot O.Ol 0.02 0 0Z
..... 0.01 O.OI 0.01 O.Ot 0 02
.... 0.01 0,01 0-01 0.0l 0.02 0 02
- 0.0689 bar. Ift - 0.304& m.
Table 4-.4.3(c) Equinleat LenIfil of Pipe in Feet for Steel and Copier Fitfinis ud V=im
.. [lbew~ Tees
Fin~nl/vel,e Flow Flow
Diemeter 45 90 Loci Tbra Thna
In. Delrees Dqrm Redins Breach Run Gate Aalle Gk~e
,,, I 2 I 4 I I 10 21
I I 3 ~ 5 2 t 12 28
l", 2 3 2 6 2 2 L5 35
Iv: 2 4 3 8 3 2 18 43
2 3 S 3 lO 3 2 24 57
Based on Crane F~:~nze,~ PIper No. 4|0.
For SI Un:B: Ifl - 0.3041 m.
(The ~s ~ ~Nn the fn~zon I~ tb~ t~ ritual NIOI tnd~O~al Of the C F~or av~b~ to t~ piping)
vah.
tl
Coek Check
3
52
6
(k) The remaining pipinl sbaU be sized me same as the
p,pmg to the farthest spnnkler ugdeu sinalter sizes an
justified by calculations.
Exceptton: For sprmklere~ dwellinls manufactured o~site.
the mzmmum pressure needed to ntisfy t~te system dtstgn
crtterza on the system side of the meter shall be siRetried on a
data ptate by the manufacturer. (.~ $ectton 2-].)
T~ 4-am
Peaam, Loam is Warn Mm
NOTE: Hil~er pream Ioue~ spe~k¢ by IM muauSagturuf
~n plze of thoN s~ m tM ~. ~
wh~ sup~mI ~m aS pmvad~ ~ tM ~
· A~ve mu~m~m mt~ flow of mmmo~y avm~
"~ s~n I ~L
For SI Umu: t Wm' 3.715 ~mia; I to. - 15.4
4-4.4 To size piping for systems with an elevated tank
pump, or pumptank combination. determine the presser{
at the water supply oudet and proceed through steps (cl. (c~
.(g), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of 4=4.3.
4..5 Pipisl Coefilsrm~ms. Piping con~guntions may be
Ioolx~ laddad. stmpt nn. or combinauons thereat.
· '~44 Leeslke~'Sl~alden. Spnnklen shall be instalLact u
all areu.
Exception .Vo. L .~pnnlders may be omuted ./~om ~c;~
rooms aog exceedia&, .%e sq .fi (.t ~ m~) wnA noncom~u.s.b~
piumb|nl /txtures.
Exce#noa ~Vo. 2: Sprmiden nuay be orereed .From sr, ta
c/oseu white tJle/ellt djmeJuion does not exceed J fi /0. ~ n,
and ~e aren does aoe exceed 24 sq fi ~2.2 m:j ~nd ~e ,,aZ
and cedinp are sur[nced wuJe aoncombusub/e or [zr, tz:~
combsutible minehats as defined by NFP4 220. ~t,,ndara ~
Types o/ Bufidinl Construction.
O~IR altle~l(d ~.l~llJ. ,.~tl$. and :; ~dar £SFtlttkN'$
Exception No. 4: Sprtnlders may be omtttect .;tom ::::~
13D-12
INSTAU.~.T[ON OF SPR|NKL~R SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOBILE HOMF~
crawl spaces. and other concealed spaces that are not used or
intended for living purposes or storage.
Exception No. 5.' St~rinkiers may be omitted from entrance
./byers that are not site only means of egress.
Chapter 5 Referenced Publications
5-1 The following documents or portions thereof are refer-
enced within this standard and shall be considered pan of
the requirements of this document. The edition indicated
for each reference is the current edition as of the date of the
NFPA issuance of this document.
5-1.1 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Asso-
clarion, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
NFPA 13-1989, Standard for the Installation o/Sprinkler
Systems
NFPA 22-1987, Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire
Protection
NFPA 74-1989, Standard for the Installation. Mainte-
nance. and Use of Household Fire Warning Equipment
NFPA 220-1985, Standard on Types of Building Construc-
non.
5-1.2 Other Codes and Standards.
5-1.2.1 ANSI Publications. American National Standards
Institute, Inc., 1450 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.
ANSI B16.1-1975, Cast/ron Pipe Flanges and Flanged
Fittzngs. Class 25. 125. 250 and 800
ANSI B16.3-1985, Malleable/ron Threaded Fittings,
C/ass I50 and
ANSI B16.4--1985, Cast/ron Threaded Fittings, Classes
/25 and 250
ANSI B16.5-1981, Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
ANSI B16.9-1986, Factory-.4/Iade Wrought Steel But~-
',~'e/ding Fittings
ANSI B t 6. l t-t 980, Forged Steel Fittings, Socket-Welding
and Threaded
ANSI B16.18-1984, Cast Copper Alloy Solder Ioint Pres-
s;~re Fittings
ANSI B16.22-1980, Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy
Solder Joint Pressure Fittings
ANSI B 16.25- t 986,Buttwdding Ends
ANSI B36.10M-t98'5, Welded and Seamless Wrought
Steel Pipe.
5-1.2.2 ASTM Publications. American Society for Testing
and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19105.'
ASTM A53-1987, Standard Specification for Pipe. Steel.
Black. and Hot-Dipped. Zinc-Coated Welded and Seamless
Steel Pipe
ASTM A 135-1986, Standard Specification for Electric-
Resistance- Welded Steel Pipe
ASTM A234-1987, Standard Specification for Piping Fit-
Hngs of Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate
and Elevated Temperatures
ASTM A795-1985, Specification for Black and Hot-
Dipped Zinc-Coated Welded and Seamless Steel Pipe for Fire
Protection
ASTM B32-1987, Standard Specification for Solder
Metal. 95-5 (Tin-Antimony-Grade 95TA)
ASTM B75-i981, Standard Specification for Seamless
Copper Tube
ASTM Bgg-19g6, Standard Specification for Seamless
Copper Water Tube
ASTM B251-1987, Standard Specification for G. eneral
Requirements for Wrought Seamless Copper and Copper-
Alloy Tube
ASTlit E380-1986, Standard for Metric Practice.
. 5-1.2.3 AWS Publication. American Welding Society, 550
NW LeJeune Road, Miami, FL 33135.
AWS A5.8-1981, Specification for Brazing Filler Metal.
Appendix A
This ,4pptndix it not a pan of the reqm'rementt of th& NF?,4 'document
· U included for mformation purposes only.
A-I-1. NFPA 13D is appropriate for the protection against
fire hazards only in one- and two-family dwelling. and
mobile homes. Residential pot.ions of any other building
may be protected with residential sprinklers in accordance
with 3-11.2.9 of NFPA 13-1989, Standard for the Installa-
tion of Sprinkler Systems. Other portions of such building
should be protected in accordance with NFPA 13.
The criteria in this standard are. based on full-scale fire
tests of rooms containing typical furnishing found in
residential living room, kitchens, and bedroom. The fur-
hisring were arranged as typically found in dwelling units
in a manner similar to that shown in Figures A-l-l(a), (b),
and (e). Sixty full-scale fire tesU were conducted in a
twostoo/dwelling in Los Angeles, California and 16 tests
were conducted in a 14-ft (4.3-ram) wide mobile home in
Charlotte, North Carolina. Sprinkler system designed and
installed according to this standard are expected to prevent
flashover within the compartment of origin if sprinklers are
installed in the compartmenL A sprinkler system designed
and installed according to this standard cannot, however, be
completely expected to control a fire involving unusually
higher average fuel loads than typical for dwelling units [ 10
psi (0.7 bar)] and where the interior finish has an unusually
high tiame spread rating (greater than 225).
For protection of multifamily dwellings, refer to NFPA
13, Stanahrd for the InstaJlalion of Sprinlder Systems, or
NFPA I3R, Standard/or the Installation of Sprinlder Sys-
tems in Residential Occupancies up to Four Stories in
Height.
A-I-2 Levels of Protection. Various levels of firesafety are
available to dwelling occupants to provide life safety and
propet'v/protection
This standard recommends, but does not require, sprin-
klering of all areas in a dwelling; it permits spnnklers to be
omitted in certain areas. These areas are the ones shown by
NFPA statistics (see Table A-l-2(a)] to be the ones where the
989
· ,PPE~oIx ,, 13D-i ~
,
For Si
7I..
O c:Or,mK~er
C~ C~r~l~ns
CH Chest
L'mt$: tm.- ~J4 ram.
FiEMR A-i-i(a)
L~ngrc3Orn
34'/m" E
I C
..
W,m:low Area
/
33Y,"
1'
t
42"
, I Door
I rC'.osm:l)
I
',
52~'," B
6"
t
72"
S - Sofa C - Chaff
E - End Table CW - Curtains
L - idling O - SOrmkler
For Si Unmts: t ,n. - 2~ 4 ram.
Filmre A-I-I(e) LitilI Rmmm.
13D-14
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELJdNGS AND MOBILE HOMES
incidence of life loss from fires in dwellings is low. Such an
approach produces a reasonable degree of firesafety. Great-
er protectxon to both life and property will be achieved by
sprinklering all areas,
Guidance for installation of smoke detectors and fire
deteaion systems may be found in NFPA 74, Standard/or
the Installation. Maintenance, and Use of Household Fire
~Varning Equipment.
Area of Orsgzn
Living Room 4
Bedroom 27%
Kjtchen 15%
Storage Area 4%
Heaung Equipment Room
Structural Area 2%
Other Areas
Form of Material Ignited
Furniture 27%
Bedding 18%
Combustible Liquid or Gas 13%
Interior Finzsh 9%
Structural Member 9%
Waste, Rubbish 4%
Clothing, on a Person 3%
Cooking Materials 3%
Electrical Insulation 2%
Curtains. Drapery 2%
Other 10%
Table A-l-l(a)
Causal Facton ia
One. and Two-Family Dw,~iug
Fires Which Caused One or More Deaths
Based on 6066 incidents
where area of orign was
reported
Based on 5080 incidents
where form of material
ignited was reported
Form of Heat of Ignition
Smoking Materials
Heat from Fuel - Fire or 25%
Powered Object
Heat from Miscellaneous 15%
Open Flame (Including
. Match)
Heat from Electrical t4%
Equipment Arcing or
Overload
Hot Objecu Including 7%
Properly Operating
Electrical Equipment
Other 3%
Based on 5016 incidents
where form of heat of
ignition was reported
Total number of incidents
reported
10,194
Source: FIDO Data Base [973 to: ,; ~2. NFPA Fire Analysts Department.
Fires-'544,000
Table A-l-2(b)
1980-84 One- and Two-Ftmily Dw, ilingl and Mobil, Homes
Annual Avenges
Civilian Deedes-3,900
Percentages by Area of Origia
Area of Origin (901 Code) Civilian Deaths (Used for Ranking) Fir.
Living room, den, lounge ( t 4) 40.2 [ 1.6
Bedroom (2 t-22) 24.1 t t.6
Katchen {24) 14.0 20.6
Structural Area (70-79) 5.8 I 5.5
ICrawl space (71)] (1.5) (3.2)
[Unspect~ed (79)] (1.0) (1.0)
[Balcony, porch (72)] (0.9) (1.1)
:Cetlin~Floor assembly (73)] (0.7) (0.8)
[Ceiling/Roof assembly (74)] (0.6) (2.3)
[Wall assembly (75)] '. (0.6) (2.0)
Dining room (23) 2.3 l.l
Heaung equipment room (62) 1.9 3.7
Bathroom (25) 1.2 1.7
Hallway, corridor (01) 1.2 0.9
Garage' (47) t. 1 3.4
Interior stairway (03) 1.0 0.4
Closet (42) 0.9 1.2
Other known single area 4.2 26.6
[Chimney (51 )] (0.4) (18.9)
Multiple areas (97) 0.8 0.7
Unclassified, not
appticabke (98-99) 13 1.0
Total: [00.0 100.0
· Does not mcluae dwellin$ Ilralel coael M properly type, wbi~N ii a lull numbel'.
969 I=dmon
1
Civilian Injuries-14,100
Civfiiam Injuries
21.9
20.9
27.5
7.4
(2.9)
(0.7)
(0.9)
(0.5)
(0.7)
(0.8)
1.6
3.6
1.9
1.1
3.7
0.4
7.5
(0.7)
0.6
0.6
100.0
A-I-3 System control valves should be o( the indicating
t>pe. such as plug valves. ball ~aives. butterfly valves. or
O S. & Y ~,ate valves.
-x-1-4, The responsibility For properly mamtamm~ a sprm-
k~er s}stem ~s ~e oohgat~on of the owner or manager who
shou~ ~n~erstand ~he sDnnkler system operatan. A
mum m~n:n~ mamachance program should recluse the
~ %'~suall~ :~spec: aH spnnklers to ensure aSamst ob-
i~ruct~on o~' spr3~.
~b) Inspect aH viivie ~o assure that they are open.
{c) Test ~il waterflow devtces.
(d) The alarm system. ff restoiled. should be tested.
NOTE: When mt appean hkely that the t~t wd] result sn a
response of me fire department noll~cit&o~ to the 8re
department should N ma~l prior to me
te~ Pumps. where employed. should be o~raled.
.vF2( 20. ~lGn~rd ./br z~e [n$lil/izzon o/CeRIrz/~G/Fire
Pumps. )
(r) The pressure oF air used with d~ systems should
checked.
(gj wa~er level 1n tanks should be checked.
(h) Care should be taken to see that spnnklen are nol
paroled esther at me ume or ms~allation or dunni sub~-
quent redecoration. When platens spnnkler paprunS or
paintinS m areas next to spnnkien. the spnnklen may
protected by coyeras with a has which should be removed
mmmedzately after parenunS has been timshed.
(m) For Furmet mformilion see NFPA I3A.
ed Practice/Or the/nspectzon, Testing and Maintenance oJ'
Sprtnkier it'stems.
A-l-5.1.1 .~t least three spare sprinklen of each ty~.
temperature ratas. and orifice size used tn the system
should be kept on the premise. When fund spnnkl¢~
replaced by the owner. ~ department. or othen. car=
should be taken to assure that the replacement spnnkler hu
the same operates characteristic.
A-l-5.1.4 Testing of a system can ~ accomplish~ by
tilling the s?stem with water and chokeI visually For
leakage at each Joint or couplin~
Fire aepartment coan~tioas ~ not required for systems
covered by th~s stan~rd. but ma~ ~ installed at the
discretion of the owner. In the c~l hydrostatic tests
accordance with N~A 13. Standard for the l~tallauon of
Sprtn~ler ~vltt~. ~e r~ui~.
Dry systems should al~ ~ t~t~ by pl~inI the sy,tem
unaer air preslu~. Any lea tMI llul~ tn
pressure greater than 2 psi (0.14 bar) ta 24 hou~ should
corrected. Check for lea~ usinl ~apy water brushed on
each jomt or coupttnl. Lea will ~ shown by the pr~ac~
of bubbles. This test should ~ mad~ prior to conce~tnl of
p~pmS.
A-I-Z Connecuon for fire proteflon to city mains
subject to local relulatmn coneearnI metenni and back-
flow prevenuon requireaerial. Preferred and acceptable
water suppty arrangements are shown m Figurfl
{b), and Ic~. When a meter must ~ u~a ~tw~n th~ c~ty
13D-:5
r-...-C tv Watee
;~ City Gate
Valve
/////I//////l/'~'/l////ll/l//I/Svs~e,"'
Ma,n Control/~ ~
V~,ve
~atlr
'~Oer :acea :~ ~ISS~ri G~e 'va. ,e
C~KN Vamve
~ra.n a~a tes~ ~~e~ec~r
Connect,on ~ Pressure
T To Automot,c
SOtlaCier
System
Fil~re A-Z-2(a) Preferable An'~agemeat.
Water Mlin
I m C.tv Gate I , C.vv Gate
Valve Valve
///////[// //////////////},///////
SOtinKier
d..14/fCOntrOl Valve
~eference 3.1 I. Merge
ExceOt,on No. 1 )
PreSSUre Gage :c~esr =
~ Water F~Ow / "Y a, ,e
Dram anO Test ~et~tOr
COnn~hOn ~~rl$!ure
T TO AMTOmlTt¢ To ~o~e$~ C
SVlt~
FilweA-Z-2(b) .~t~al~eArrtalement.
Water Ma,n
*Gl~iOl~er FICIfJ C~sl, l:tx valves 00t,onat
Filve A-2-2(c) ..%¢ceFaile ,%rrangement.
13D-16
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND
water main and the sprinkler system supply, an acceptable
arrangement is shown in Figure A-2-2(c). Under these
circumstances, the flow characteristics of the meter must be
included in the hydraulic calculation of the system. [See
Table 4-4.]/d).] Widen a tank is used for both domestic and
fire protection purposes, a iow water alarm actuated when
the water level falls below i 10 percent of the minimum
quantzty specified :n Sectzon 2-I should be provided.
A-2-3(a) In dwellings where long-term use of lawn sprin-
klers :s common, proviszon should be made for such usage.
A-3-5.6.1 Decorative painting of a residential sprinkler is
not to be confused with the temperature identification
colors as referenced in 3-11.6 of NFPA 13-1989, Standard
/br the [nstallaUon o/Sprinkler Systems.
A-3-~ Alarms should be of suPicient intensity to be clearly
audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with
all intervening doors closed. The tests of audibility level
should be conducted with all household equipment that
may be in operation at night in full operation. Examples of
such equipment are window air conditioners and room
TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOBILE HOMES
humidifiers.
[east water
monitored.
When off-premises alarms are provided, at
flow and control valve position should be
A-4-1.2 It is intended that the design area is to include the
two adjacent sprinklers producing the greatest water de-
mand within the compartment. It is also intended that the
number of design sprinklers is limited to a maximum of two
sprinklers even if there are more than two sprinklers in the
compartment, except as noted in A-4-2.3.
A-4-2.3 Fire testing has indicated the need to wet walls in
the area protected by residential sprinklers at a level closer
to the ceiling than that accomplished by standard spnnkler
distribution. Where beams, light fixtures, sloped ceilings,
and other obstructions occur, additional residential sprin-
klers will be necessary to achieve proper response and
distribution. In addition, for sloped ceilings, higher flow
rates may be needed. Guidance may be obtained from the
manufacturer.
A series of 33 full-scale tests were recently conducted in a
test room of 12 ftx 24 ft (3.6 m x 7.2 m) floor area to
determine the effect of cathedral (sloped} ancYor beamed
ceiling construction on fast response residential sprinkler
~"~/L~Commeet $WinklertPlumbe n
Demand to S~inklet
to O~etmme
f Public Main '"~
Figure A-2-3(a).
Add Domestie DamaRe for Lauralay to brinkJar DimaM to DeeemiRs
To Slfirtkleri
Wlt~
To Laundry
Fixture-
Figure A-2-3(b).
Comhm~l P;pin!
......... Sprinkler Piping
X Sprinkler
HN| X-
Living Room
AM HNI
X ....... /
t.._,, LaMedry
." X Furnace Room
X
Game Room
X 8samara
~, / ......... X Beemean
8eclroom
Bath
X DinahI Am
/ X KitCilia
KiICM~
Figuro A-l-3(e).
I 9~9 Eatzson
13D-! -
.-
~
/ ' Neit
Figure A-I-i.ZCa} Sprinkler Design Area for Typical Residential
Occulmncy.
performance. The testtug was limited to one pendent-type
reszdentaai spnnkler model. two ceiling slopes (0 and
degrees). and two beam confilurations on the sinlie enclo-
sure s~ze. In order to judge the effectiveness of spnnklers
controlling t~res. two base line tests. in which the ceilini was
smooth and horizontal. were conducted w:th the pendent
spnnkiers installed and with a total water supply of
(98 L,'m:nl as required by NFPA liD. The results of the
base hue tests were compared with tests in which the ceilinI
,,.as beamed and/or sloped and two pendent sprinklers were
installed w~th the same water supply. Under the 1imited
conditions tested. the comparison indicates that sloped
andJot beamed ceilinp represent a serious challenle to the
fire protection aJorded by fist response resideaLmA sprin-
klers. However. further tests wids beamed ceLlinp indicated
that ~re control equivalent to that obtained in the base line
tests may be ohmned ir one sprinkler is centered in each
ba~* formed by the beam and a total water supply of 36 gpm
(t ~6 L'mm) is available. Fire control equivalent to that
omamed ~n the baseline tests was obtained for the smooth
sloped ce,lin8 tests when three spnnklers were Lnstalled
wuh a toga[ water supply of ~4 IPm (200 L/man). [na
smoldenng-started fire test. the fire was sup'pressed.'
IA-4-3.3.2 Antifreeze solutions may be used for maintain-
~n~ automatic sprmkler protee.on in small unheated areas.
Effects oLr Cathedral and Beamed CedlnI Constructran on
Reszdentsal Spnnkler Perromance. FMRC J,[. M3NS.RA(3). by
Bdl Jr. g.G.. Kunl. N-C: Brown. W R.; and Hill. E** prepared ro*r
L,' .S. FIre AdmLnLstratmn ( Feb. ~ 98~).
Table .&..4-2.3 .%taximum Distance
from Sprinkler INtlecfee to Bettom
o( Ceiltel OINmacttee
Discute from Sprinkler
to Side of Ceilinl
Less than b Ln.
6 ~n. ~o hess than I
[ ft to tess than ~- ft
: et to less than 2 rt 6 in.
; Ft 6 m. to Zeu t~an
3 Ft to [e~ than 3
3 f~ 6 m. to leu t~an ~ ft
~ f~ to I~s t~an ~ ~ 6 m.
~ Ft 6 in. to e~ than
5 ft to I~ than 5 ~ 6 in.
5 Ft 6 m. to leu t~an 6
For SI Um~ tm. - 2~.4 ram: I ft a 0.3~1 m.
?,taximum Distance
from SINqnkler Deflector
to Bettom ol'
Ceiltel Obstruction
Not perrmttec~
-'m.
J, an.
7 in.
Antifreeze solutions are recommended only for s.~stems not
exceedin1 40 lallons ( t 5 1 L).
Because o~' the cost of' reSllinl the system or repien~shm~
small leaks, it is advisable to use small dr~ valves where
more their 40 iallons ( I ~ 1 L) are to be supl~lied.
Propylene IJycol or other s,-. ~able material may be used as
a substitute for pnmin! water. to prevent evapoLlution or' the
pnmmI fluid. and thus reduce ice formation w~th~n the
s)'stem.
A-4-3.3jJ Beyond certain Limits. increased prc~Port~on of
antifreeze does not lower the freezml point of solution. ~ St, e,
F/=a~re ,4-4-J.J.J.,~.) Giycenne. diethyiene ~l.~col. eth}tene
Ilycol. and propylene Ilycol should never be used w~thout
mixmi with water in proper proportaons. because ~hese
materials tend to thicken near 32'F (0'C).
A-4-3.3.4 To avoid leakale. the materials and workman-
ship should be excellent. the threads clean and sharp..~nc!
the joints ttlt.. Use only metal-faced valves.
A..4..3.3.5 Tests should be made by drawn ng a sam rile
solutzon from valve B two or three times dunn~ the r'r~zt .-
season. especsally tf it his been necessar.~ to dr~n ~n~
budding sprinkler system t~r repairs. changes. ¢tc ~ ~m.~;:
hydrometer should be used so that a small sample ~.~ii
13D-18
INSTALLATION OF SPRINK. LER SYSTEMS ZN ONE- AND TWO-FAM|LY DWELLINGS AND MOBILE HOMES
30 40 50 60 70
Percent 8V Volume
80 90 100
Figure A4-3.3.3.3 Freezing Points of Water Solutions of
Ethylene Glycol and Diethylene GlycoL
sufficient. When water appears at valve B or when the test
sample indicates that the solution has become weakened,
empty the entxre system and recharge as previously de-
scribed.
A-44.3 Determination of public water supply pressure
should take into account probable minimum pressure con-
dition prevailing dunng such periods as at night, or dunng
summer months when heavy usage may occur; also, the
possibility of interruption by floods, or ice conditions in
winter.
a. water Pressure in Street
b. Arbitrarily Select Pipe Size
c. Deduct Meter Loss ( Size)
d. Deduct Head Loss for Elevation
SystemControl Valve'
rt x 0.434)
e. Deduct Pressure Loss from City Maxn
to Sprinkler
Pipe- ft
Valves- Ft
F. lbows- ft
Tee- ft
,Total- ftx __
f. Deduct Pressure Loss for Piping--Control
Valve to Farthest Spnnklet*
Size Quan.
Description
90' Elbow
45' Elbow
Tee
Check Va/ve
Valve( )
Total
Total
Equiv.
Feet
Total
Equiv.
Feet
Individual Net
Loss Total
Ftx __ :-,----
Size Quan. Description
90' Elbow
45' Elbow
Tee
Check Valve
Valve( ) , ·
_ Total Ftx __
Remnining Pressure for Sprinkler Operation
· Fm~to~ from Tables 4,.4.3(a), (b), (c). and (d).
For SI Units: I ft s 0.30~g m: I psi - 0.0689 bat.
Figure A-4-4.3(1) Cal,:alatton Sheet.
Indlvidul
Water Pressure at Supply Outlet
a. Deduct Head Loss br Elevation
, ftx
b. Deduct Pressure Lo~d from Pipin$ Within ..
Building'
Remainin$ Pressure for Sprinkler Operation
· Factors from Tab|es d-4.3(a), (b), (c), and (d).
For St Units: I ft - 0.304t m: t I~i m 0.0619
Figur~ A-4-4.3(2)
Net
Total
Calculation Sheot -- Elevmml Tank, Beestel
Pump, Pump Tank Supply.
T'~DEX
Appendix B Referenced Publications
B-I The Following documems or portsons thereof
re."trtnced u.~thtn chts standard for tnt'or'matzona! pu~oses
onZ~ ~n~ t~us arc not considered part or the requirements of
:hes document The edmon ~n~cated for each r~erence ss
the cu:r~: ~d~c~on ~s o( the date of :he NFPA ~ssuance of
.B-!.I NFPs, Publications. Natzonal Fire Protection Asso-
~:~atxon. Baner}marcix Park. Quxncy. MA 02269.
NFPA 13-1989. Standard /br the Installalton o! Sprtn,~ie,'
Systems
NFPA 13A-t987. Recommended Practtce /Or the [~spec-
iron. resting and .~,[atntenance o]'Sprtnkter Systems
NFPA 13R-t989. Standard/br the Installation
Icier Systems tn Residential OcCupancies up to Four Stones
Heegnt
N FPA 20-1987. Standard/'or the Installation ot Centrt
gas Fire Pumps
NFPA 74-1989. Standard/'or the Installalton. ~,[aznte
nance. and r..:Te o./' H ~'ehotd Fzre ~4;arntng Equipment.
ladez
1989 National Fire Protection ~_,_%ec_satton. all rtlhu ~.
The copvngnl tn tilts ,naex As separate anti tiistlnct from the Copvnlfil m the document whzCfi tt mtiew. The beensin! praymona set form for tl~e aocumem are
not ,~pp|tcaOle to [fits index This maex may ~ol N repro~uceO m witpie or m pan I~v any men without EM ezpre~ wrRten permillion o4' the National F~rc
Alarm. waterflow 3-6. A-3-6
AntU'reexe
Smutsons ~-3 ~. Tahiti ~3.4.1. ~3 ~ 2.
S~stems ~3 3
Dennmon . ~3.] t
-C-
Compofie~l!~. trillre.
CoMeclloo.i. co rDtllll..
...... ChaD. )
..... A-2-Z. Figs. A-Z-Z (a mr,d cl
-D-
Dellin arid Ime'an'--'l ............... I-5. &.-I
De~ces &rid matefiNs ............... 1-5 ~. ~-1-5. L
System ........................ Chap. 4.
Cnlefia ........................... 4-1. ~-4...~
Destin dtm:halll ...................... see DtKhatlt aes,la
Detector. mlleM
Den~mcm ...............................
DI,chatle. dellin ............................ 1- |. I
Dehni.on ............................. t-3
I:h~ill ........................ 3- I
De,/sy, iem .................... &.3 Z
Pennman .................
De~mtton ............ t-3
D~eUlnl
De~muon
-F-
Finlnp 3.3 :~. 3-3.7. TaPIs 3-3 J
ln.ttaltmlee ....... see Desxln anti !nstatlatla
-J-
Joints .........
-M-
· qtllnllnllll ........
M~et ........
Me~de kaee ...........
De~n:uon ...........
SulMlmrll ........................ j
water sulMNy. uranlemem of ...... ;-3
.%,-.~35. F!l. A-~-
PiPill ~
MulttlNrpo~ ...............
DefinitiOn .................
I%,k...'- _.J i?~em
Defttattoo ..............
Supply
Definition ...............
S~,stem
De~filtlO~
13D-20
iNSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MOglLE HOMF~
Protection, levels of ...................... ~- t -2,
Tal~[es A-I-2 (a an~
Pump
Defint~zon. .1-3
Purpose o[ standard.
-T-
Testing ................................ 1-5.1.4, 4-3.6. A-I-5.1.4,
A-4.2.3, A-4-3.6
-U-
Unit0 of measurement ................................... 1-6
-S-
-V-
Scope of stintlard ........................
Sprinkler systems
Components ............................... Chap. 3
Defin:tion ................................... Z -3
Sprinklers
Automatic
Deftration ............................. ~-3
Coverage .................................... ~.4
Destgn and ~nsta/lat~on ........................... 3-5
L~auon
Number oF ................................. ~l.2, A~I.2
Paintzng an~ ornamental ~nssnes ................... 3-S.6, A-3-S.6
Position of ................................... ~2, A4-2
Ressdenznal
De~mczon .......................................... 1-3
StM~d
De~mtion ............................................. 1
valves ....................
Check ........ 3 - 1
Definition
Control ........................................... 1-3
Definition ...................................... 1-3, A- I -3
Supply, arrangement of ................ 4-3.5, A-4-3.5, Fig.
-W-
Wate.~ demand ......................................... 4- t. 3
Water supply .....................
General provisions, · .................. Chap. 2
..................................... 2-1
Mobile home ..........................................2-4
Sources .........................................2-2, A-2-2
Wet system ...........................................4-3. I
Definition .............................................
13R-I
CopynlJmt '~ 1989 NFPA. All Rtims Reserved
NFPA 13R
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
Residential Occupancies up to Four Stories in Height
1~8~ Edidoe
This edition of NFPA 13R. Standard for the Installatlon of SpnnMtr S)/sttm~ in
Residential Occupanctt, s up to Four Stories tn Height, was prepared by the Technical
Committee on Automatic Spnnklers. released by the Correlating Committee on Water
Extinguishing Systems, and acted on by the National Fire ProtecTion Association, Inc. at
its Fzll Meeting held ':oretuber t 4- t 7.1988 in Nashville, Tennessee. It was issued by the
Standards Council on January t3, 1989, with an effective date of February 6, tgg9.
The 1989 edition of this standard has been approved by the American National
Standards [nsutute.
Ortlia and Developmat of NFPA 13It
NFPA 13R represents a milestone in the development of sprinkler installation design
standards. This 6zst edition encompasses a combined effort of the fire protection
community to develop a stsnclard for the protection of low-nM, residential facilities.
This standard is intended to provide a higher dqree of life safety and properk7
protection to the inhabitants of low-rise, mu~tifaxmly dwellinls. Promullated as a
document which provides for increased levels of protection to huildinl occupants, the
document has also considered the economic aspects of a spnnklered facility as compared
to an unspnnklered facility.
As the nunsbe' of states and cities that implement sprinkler ordinances continues to
grow, it is felt titst systems for certain residenusl occupancies can be esiciently and
effectively inssfied in accordance with this standard.
This documnt will provide requirements on.system design which rsnle from water
supplies to hardware Nlectioa to positioninS and iocaUou of automatic sprinklers.
13R-2
INSTALLATION OF SpRZNKLER $YS'Z'~M$ IN R.F~IDENTIAL OCCUPANCIF_q UP TO FOUR $TOPJF_q IN H~GHT
Committee on Water Extinguishing System
Correlating Committee
Paul D. Smith, CAmrman
Gage-Babcock ,b A.uociatu Inc.
Robert F.. S~lomen, 3tcrtt~'y
Nltional Fire Protecuon Al.soclitton
(Nonvoting}
Wayne it. Auit, RoLl Jer. Hn & Asmstu lnc.
Thomss J. Brown Jr., Factory Mutua~ Rutarch Corp.
Cuimir J. Drains .Jr, M&]v( Protectton Coostdtaats
R.ichud Mk"~neau, Mid Hudson AutomaUc Sprin-
kler Corp.
Rdwn H. Men, Moorestowo, NJ
Jsmes w. Nnisa, James W. Noh- Co.
Chum W. Sebirmef, SchWmer Enlmcenng Corp.
Technical CommitTee on Automdc Sprinklers
Chatat W. Stairmet, C~m~
Sc.J~rmer EalancenaI Corp.
Kernper Group
(ARere&re to H. Winchell)
Edwk-'d C. Bacee, Dept. of Public S~ety
Rep. F'~ANA
Chsries B. Baxaett, AutomaUc Spnnkler Corp. of
Areeric4
Rep. NFSA
Albert M. Comly, Jr. Curtis Cox K~nneriy
Rep. AIA
Tbomu G. Daly, Hilton Hotels Corp.
Rep. AHMA
John L Dtitee, Union CaYoide Corp.
Rep. NFPA [FPS
L4e J. ~ Under~w'itef$ L,tlxwltofles Inc.
Jama R. Dewllal. Nail Ann. of Horn Build~n
(vote tlmited to 13D and 13R)
Rol~rt g. D~ka. Fi~e Control Inc.
Robet J. Gra,/. Fi~e Spnc., Inc.
Rep. AFSA
W. David i'lllimb Cobb County Firt l~pt.
Rep. IAFC
Richanl g. Hulbq, i$O Commercial Risk Se~ices
Roll I-L Jm~esa, golf Jemen & Anonties Inc.
· Kennoth W. Lindat, Industrial Risk lnsu~en
B. J. Luka~ Grinnell Fire Protection System Co. Ltd.
Rep. CASA
Wayne M. Martin, tams Angeles City Fire Dept.
Job G. O'Neill, Gap-labc. c~ i Associates Inc.
J. K. Rlcbattwm, Nail geseat~ Council of Canada
g. J. Schi~mmr, E,utm~a Kod~ Co.
J. Tom Smitl, US Fire AdminimsUon
(Vote f;rmted to 13D sod t3g)
WilHo IL TemFIl& Americsa A~tomtic Spn:~der,
Inc.
IL-,p. AF~A
William L, Tala, Grbalt fu~ Prot. Systems Co. Inc.
IL-,p. NBA
Jeba J. Wdak, Uaitea Aua. of Jome= &
premices of m Plumbinl i, Pipe Fittinl Ind. of the
US &Csasds
Wlllises D. Wsltes, ~'~t~ fo~ Fu~ gosesxr, h
William g. Wlkex, Factory Mutul Research Co~.
HN~,/IL WlecSdl, Liberr/M~tu~ [amatace Co.
Rep.
R. J. WrilM, Un~rsriten/,,tber~tories o~ C~m~t
D. M. Y~ti~, IC! Amenc~ Inc.
Rep. NFPA IF'PS
re,is H. Zimmer,----; Addphi& Agtomatic Sprin-
kler Co.
Rep. NFSA
Rofer t AllslY F~'zot7 Mutual Research Carp
~E R. ~la. Doe C~cmzcat Co
Tommy E. EEllot [ndustnil R~s~ [nsur~
DBvtd D Evans. Center "or F~re ~esearc~
RusMtl P FieromE, ~IH. F~re Spnnxler ~ssn.
G~ E. ~ve~cL U~e~mters
f~ltemate to L. J
Ed~ R. Lisim~ Un~e~nten ~nton, of
Canada
<Altematw m R. L wMpt)
C~dl V. ~ Xerox
(ARamaic to ~ M Yarlu~
(ARtmatt Co R. J. ~ray)
J. R. ~awtia~. Natt. R~arc,
(Aite~att to J. ~. R~char~nj
COMMITTEE IERSO',',EL
.s, llefisatH
Marvan M. Mazw¢ll. Maxwell & Lcgreton .xrc~ttects
(Alternate to J G.
Francis J. MikioucmcJL Eastman Koctak
( ~ltemste :o E. I.
Josllh G. Novnk S Pasadena Fire
, ~,ttemate ;o E. C.
Gernld W. O'Rn~'ka. Sch%rmer EaFneenn
I .Mt. emate :o C. W Scl~irmerl
James R~lzloff. The vtkmi C~rp
! *,itemate to C. Barnett)
Hart/Shaw. (ntl. ~ssoc. of Fire
,Alternate to W David Hiltoat
Jack Thatkey. Allan &.aromatic Spnnkler
(Alternate to L. Z~mmermann~
(Alternate to T. O.
Jell Ir. Vbi& HFP Spanklet. [nc.
lAircaste to W, Tampdial
William A. WeWk i~lf .tensen & Ass~sates Inc.
(ARamaic to K. H. Jens~n)
13R-3
NonteI
Edwt~l K. BudticK Hal)ins ~,ssoc.
William E, KoHeL Ko~el Assoc.
Rep. Committee on Safet~ tO Life
Barn/.%4. [..an. Wormaid FiFe Systems
Subcommittee on Residentisl Occupucies
Joke G. O'NeilL C'Aatrm~n
Gale-Baixock & Associates Inc.
Ed~ztl L lednick. H~$hes ASS~.
Lsym [. CslFleIL Rtttsl~le Automauc Spnnkler
Co. [nc.
Jm L !~wlll$ NIU. Aut of Home Builc~n
itlclan L Hqae, ISO Commercial Rak brvtces
R. dpk Jackson, AJbLIte [6SMtlaCl Co.
HsiII-CbeeI ItelI, Factory MutulJ RL, v, lA*b Corp.
C_deell [.. L~ Uodlfwfttlfl L,tb~rtto~el Inc.
Denall Lamlma~, Mst-yl~,~d Fire Equtpment Corp~
fltlOB
J. L ~ Fire !beearch Conact! of Canad~
Hm'ft ~llm, loll As, It of Fire Chtefs
J. Tee Smidi. US Fir~ Adml~tst~ltlo!l
WIlliam L, Tee~, Onnnell F~re Proration Systems
Co.
WIlliam T'homa~ !C~mlxt
Willlira A, Wuilk iI~Mf Jean led AIIlC.
~ g. Solatom, NFI~ St, of L:atson
NOTE Mmlm~np oR a Committee sitall not to rod of xtMIf coastlttate an en69nemeat of the
Aretroll or My document dmve.W~lmmma ~y m Coma.tree on wmcb tan cum0ef serves.
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RE. SIDENTT. AL OCCUFANCIF.~q UP TO FOUR STOtLIF,$ IN I, LEIGi. IT
Contents
Preface ...................................................... 13R-
Chapter I General Information .................................... 13R-
~-1 Scope ................................................... 13R- 5
1-2 P~rpcse ................................................. 13R- 5
1-3 Definitions ............................................... 13R- 5
1-4 Units ................................................... 13R- 6
1-5 Piping .................................................. 13R- 6
1-6 System Types ............................................. 13R- ?
Chapter 2 Working Plans, Design, Installation, Acceptance Tests,
and Maintenance ...................................... 13R- 7
2-1 Working Plans and Acceptance Tests ............................ 13R- 7
2-2 Design and Installation ...................................... 13R- 9
2-3 Water Supply ............................................. 13R- 9
2-4 System Components ........................................ 13R=10
2-5 System Design ............................................ 13R-11
2-6 Location oF Sprinklers ...................................... 13R-I 1
2-7 Maintenance ............................................. 13R-I 1
Chapter 3 Referenced Publications ................................. 13R-12
Appendix A ................................................... 13R-i 2
Appendix B ReferenctNi PubUcations ................................ 13R-17
Index ........................................................ 13R-18
NFPA I,tR
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
Residential Occupancies up to Four Stories
in Height
1989 Edition
NOTICE: ,~,n asterisk (') followin$ the number or tenet designat-
ing a paragraph mallcares exptanatory matenat on mat paxalrapn in
Appendix A.
Information on referenced publications can be found in Chapter
3 and Appendix B.
Prefaco
It is intended that this standard provide a method for
those individuals wishing to install a spnnkler system for
life safety and property protection. It is not the purpose of
this standard to require the installation of an automatic
spnnkler system. This standard assumes that one or more
smoke detectors will be installed in accordance with NFPA
74, Standard For the Installation. Maintenanct. and Ust of
Hou.fehoM Fi~e 14/arntng tFqutpmtnt.
Chapter I C~neral Information
""~-!* Scope. This standard deals with the design and in-
stallation of automatic spnnkler systems for protection
against fire hazards in residential occupancies up to four
stones tn he%ght.
1-2' hr~se, The purpose of this standard is to provide
design and restdilation requirements for a sprinkler system
to aid in the detection and control of ~ns in residential
occupancies and thus provide improved protection alainst
mJurT, life loss. and prolxtW dandle. A spnnkler system
designed and installed in accordance with this standard is
expected to prevent flashover (total involvement) in the
room of 5re origin, when sprinklered, and to improve the
chance for occupants to escape ee be evacuated.
Nothing in this standard is intnded to restrict new
technologies or allfinite attanlementt, providinl that the
level of safety prelcribed by tile standlid ts not lowered.
1-3 Definitions,
Approved, Acceptable to the "authority havinl juraIdle-
non."
NOTE: The National Fir~ Protection Association don not
approve. ,nspeet or cerxlfy any inslallations. procedures.
equipment. or materials nor does it apJ~ove or evaguam
testing tal~ratortes. la determminl tim acceptability of
installations or procedure, equipment or ma~ the
autlsonty havlnl junsdictmn may m acceptarea on cure-
pliance with NFPA or oUmr al~ropnau standards. in the
absence of such standards, said autAonty may require evl-
dence of proper installation. p~ure or use. The authority
hayrag Junsdtclion may aim refer to the listinls or lal~elinl
GE, NER.~.L PROvISIO'~S
13R-5
practices of an organization concerned w~th product evalua-
tions which ts in a position to determine compliance w~th
appropriate stanaarcls for the current production of hated
tiems.
Authority Havinl Jurisdlcrloe, The "authority having
jurisdiction" is the organization, oreice or individual re-
sponsible for "approvlng" equipment. an restdilation or a
procedure.
NOTE: The phras~ "authority having jurisdiction" is used
m NF'PA documents in a broad manner since Jurisdictions
and "approvat" qencies vary. as do their resixmslbtlities.
Where public safety is primary, the "authortt,/harmI juris-
diction" may be a redera, ~te, Ioc~ or other re, oral
depm-tment or individual such is a ~re chief, are ramhat.
chief of a fire prevention burrau, labor department. hearth
department. bmldinl olltciat. electrtcat inspector. or others
havml statutory authority. For insurance purpeMs. an Insur-
ance Inspection department, rattnl bureau. or other lnsur-
2nee company representative may be the "authority having
jurisdiction." In many CtZ, ClimetnnCe$ t~t property owner or
his desilnated alert assumes the role of the "authority
havml jurisdiction": at Iovemment intations, the com-
mandial olScer or departmental ol~ciad may be t~ "author-
~ty hnvinl Jurisdiction"
Chock Valve, A valve that allows flow in one direction
only.
Conrail Valve, An indicating valve employed to controt
(shut) a supply of water to a sprinkler system,
Design Dis~harp, Rate of water discharged by an auto-
matic sprinkler, expressed in gallons per minute.
Dry System, A system empio.vinl automatic spnnklers
that are attached to a p~pinl ,stem containing air under
atmospheric or hilhet pressures. loss of pressure from the
openinl of a spnnkler or detection of a are condition causes
the release of water into the p~pinl system and out the
opened sprinkler.
DwMHal Unit One or more rooms L, tanled for the ue
of one or more individuals livinl colether u in a smgte
housekeepinl unit, normally bavinI cookinl, living, sam-
tary, and sleepinI facilities.
Labeled, Equipment or materials to which has been
attached a label, symbol or other identi.fyinl mark of an
orllnizltion lcceptable to the "authority hayinI jurisdic-
tion" and concerned with product evalultion, that main-
rains periodic inspection of production of labeled1 equip-
ment or materials and by whole llbelinl the manufacturer
indicates complignc~ with appropnate standards or perfor-
mance in a specified ~ner.
ListeL Equipment or materials included in a list pub-
lashed by an orlanization acceptable to the "authority
havinl jurisdiction" and conc~qsed with product evatun-
tion, that maintains periodic inspection of production of
listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either
that the equipment or material meets appropriate standards
or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified
manner,
NOTE: The mum for ideatiC. inI listed equu prrten t
vlry for each ofll/l&lltioll coffeefried with product evalad-
13R-6
INSTALLATION OF $PRINKLISR SYSTEMS IN R.r~IDENTIAL OCCUPANCIE~ UP TO FOUR ITC)RIF.~ IN H~IGI~2
tion. some of which do not recognize equipment as listed
unless it Ls also labeled. The "authority having junsdictson"
should utilize the system employed by the listing organsza-
tion to identify a listed product.
Multipurpose Piping Systems. Piping systems within
residential occupanczes intended to serve both domestic
and ~re protectxon needs.
Residential Occupancies. Residential occupancies as in-
cluded in the scope of this standard include the following,
as defined in NFPA 101®, Life Safety Codes: ( t ) Apartment buildings.
(2) Lodging and rooming houses.
(3) Board and care facilities (slow evacuation type with
16 or less occupants and prompt evacuation type).
(4) Hotels, motels, and dormitories.
Residential Sprinkler. An automatic sprinkler that has
been specifically listed for use in residential occupancies.
Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.
Shouh/. Indicates a recommendation or that which is
advised but not required.
Sprinkler--Automatic. A fire suppression device that
operates automatically when its heat-actuated element is
heated to or above its thermal rating, allowing water to
discharge over a specific area.
Sprinkler System. An integrated system of piping con-
nected to a water supply, with listed sprinklers that will
automatically initiate water discharge over a fire area.
When required, the sprinkler system also includes a control
valve and a device for actuating an alarm when the system
operates.
Standard. A document containing only mandatory pro-
visions using the word "shall" to indicate requirements.
Explanatory material may be included only in the form of
"fine print" notes, in footnotes, or in an appendix.
Waterflow Alarm. A soundinl device activated by a
wate~ow detector or alarm che~k valve.
Waterflow Detecter. An electric signaling indicator or
alarm check valve actuated by water flow in one direction
only.
Wet System. A system employing automatic sprinklers
that are attached to a piping system containing water and
connected to a water supply, so that water discharges
immediately from sprinklers opened by a fire.
14 Units. Metric units of measurement in this standard
are in accordance with the modernized metric system
known as the International System of UniG (SI). Two units
(liter and bar), outside of but recognized by SI, are com-
monly used in international fire protection. These units are
iistect, wtth conversion factors, in Table 1-4.
1-4.1 If a value for measurement as given in this standard
is followed by an equivalent value in other units, the first
1 gSg Eamon
Table 14
Name of Unit Unit Symbol Conversion Factor
liter L I ~ - 3.785 L
pascal Pa 1 psi - 689,L757 Pa
bar bar t psi - 0.0689 bar
bar bar I bar s 105 Pa
For additional conventone and reformanon s~ A.q'I'M E3g0, Standant for
,~4teftc Practice.
stated is to be regarded as the requirement. A given equiva-
lent value may be approximate.
1-4.2 The conversion procedure for the SI units has been
to multiply the quantity by the conversion factor and then
round the result to the appropriate number of significant
digits.
1-5 Piping.
1-5.1 Pipe or tube used in sprinkler sTstems shall be of the
materials in Table 1-5.1 or in accordance with 1-5.2 through
1-5.5. The chemical properti~, physical properties, and
dimensions of the materials listed in Table I -5.1 shall be at
least equivalent to the standatcls cited in the table and
designed to withstand a working pressure of not less than
175 psi (12.1 bars).
Tabis 1-5.1
Matefats mad Di~
Specification for Black and Hot-Dipped Zinc-
Coated (Galvanirzd) Welded and
Seaml~s Steel Pipe for Fizz
Protection Use
Specification for Welded and Seamless
Steel Pipe
Wrought-Steel Pipe
Specification for Electnc-Rt~stan~
Welded Steel Pipe
Copper Tube (Drawn, Seamless}
Specitcation for Seamless Copper Tube
Specification for Genial Rtquizzmnts
for Wrought Seatnine Copper and Copier-
Alloy Tube
Brazing Filler Metal (Clu$ificatioa
BCuP-] or BCuP-4)
$1x~:ification for Solder Metal. 95-5
(Tin-Antimony-Grade 95TA)
Studaid
ASTM A795
ASTM A53
ANSI B36AOM
ASTM hI35
ASTM B88
ASTM B251
AWS A5.'8
ASTM B32
1-5.2 Other types of pipe or tube may be used, but only
those listed for this service.
1-5.3 Whenever the word pipe is used in this standard, it
shall be understood to also mean tube.
1-5.4 Pipe joined with mechanical grooved fitting shall ?
joined by a listed combinaUon of fitting, gaskets, an
grooves. When grooves are cut or rolled on the pipe the}
shall be dimensionally compatible with the fittings.
Exception.' Steel pipe with wall thickne.ues les~ than Sched-
ule 30 fin sizes 8 in. (203 ram) and larger/or Schedule 40/'in
~ORKZNG PLANS. DESIGN INSTALLATTON, ACCEFTANCE TESTS. '~.O MA|NT'ENANC~
slats ltss than 8 in. r203 ram;/shall not be Joined by fittings
~ed with pipe having cut grooves.
1-5.5 Fittings used in spnnkler systems shall be of the
materials hated in Table l-5.5 or zn accordance wlth 1-5.7.
The ;hemteal properales. physical propenzes. and dimen-
szons of the materials listed m Table 1-~.5 shall be at least
equjvajent :o the standards clted in the t. able. Fittings used
in spnnkler systems shall be desisted to wlthstand the
u,'orkmg pressures royDived. but not less than 175 psi (12.1
bars) cold ~ater pressure.
Table I-S.S
Materials ud Dimeasiou Staadm~l
Cast Iron
Cast Iron Threaded Fittings.
Class 12.~ aa~ :50 .................... ~SZ B16.4
C~t IroE Pt~ Flanl~
and ~anged
Fittm~ ............................. .~NSI 816.1
M~leaDle Iron
Malleable Iron ThreMed Fimnp,
Clus tSO and 3~ ..................... ANSI BI6.3
St~t
Facto~-mMe Thread~ Fitlisp
Clm t~O gd 3~ ..................... ANSI BI6.9
Buttweldlni En~ for Pi~,
Hanl~. and Fittrap ................... ANSI Bt6.2J
S~. for Pipml Fitttnp of w~ugt
Car~n St~l and Alloy St~l
for MNemte Md Elevat~
Tem~mtur~ ........................ ASTM A234
Pi~ ~anl~ and ~anl~ Fiatasp,
St~t Nlc~l Alloy and ~et S~ Alloys . . ANSI 816.5
Foqea Steel Fittrap, kk~ We!~
and ~readed ........................ ANSi Bt6.1 t
Cop~r
Wmugt Cop~t and Cop~t ~y
~lder-Joint P~m FitU~ ............. ANSI ]16.22
Cut Cop~r ~loy ~l~-Joint
Pressu~ Fininp ...................... ANSI
!-5.6 Jo,nts for the connection of copper tube shall be
brazed.
Exception.' SolaCed joints fg:~.t some, metal} may be ueeal
for ~vet-ptpe copper' tube ~3~t, rnt.
1-~.7 Other types of fitfinis may be used, but only those
listed for this servict
14 System l~Jrpel.
14.1 Wet-PiN System. A wet-pipe systet~ sJ~all be used
when all papmIts installed in areas not subject to frerzinl.
14.2 Provision shall be made to protect pipinl from
freezing m unheated areas by use of one of the foliowahl
acceptable methods:
(a) Antifreeze system.
(b) Dry-pipe system.
13R-'
Exception.' Listed standard din-pendent. dm '~prtg~t. or dry
stdewatl sprtnMers may b~ extended ~nto unbeaten are~ not
intended for living purposes.
14.2.1 Antifreeze solutions shall be installed m accor-
dance with 5-5.3 of NFPA 13. -~tandardfor tfie [nsra~la,on
of Sprtnkler Systems.
Chapter Z Workinl Plans, Deign, Installation,
Acceptance Tests, and Maintenance
2-I ~brkinl PluMs and Acceptance Tests.
2- i. 1 Workinl PluMs.
2-1.1.1 Working plans shall be submitted For approval to
the authority havinI jurisdiction before any eqmpment ts
installed or remodeled. Deviations from ~pproved plans
will reqmre permission of the authority having ju~sdictmn.
2-1.1.2 Working plans shall be drawn to an indicated scale.
on sheets of uniform size, wUb a plan of each floor. made so
that they can be easily dupiicatecL and shall show the
followinl data:
(a) Name of owner and occupanL
(b) Location, includinI street address.
(c} Point of comptu.
(d) CeilinI construction.
(e) Full beiltt crou section.
(f) Location of fire walls.
(i) Location of partitions.
(h) Occupan~ of each area or room.
(i) Location and size of concealed spaces. attics. closets,
and bathrooms.
(j) Any small enclosures in which no sprinkles are to be
installed.
(k) Size of city main in street, pressure and whether
dead-end or circulatinl and, if dead-end, direction and
distance to nutul citculatinl main, city mare test results
inciudinl elevation of test hydrant.
(i) Make, manufacturer, type, heat-response element.
temperature ratinl, and nominal orifice size of spnnkler.
(m) Temperature ratinl and location of hiih-temperature
sprinklers.
(n) Number of sprinklers on each riser, per fio~r.
(o) Kind and location of alarm bells.
(p) Type of pipe and ~ittinls.
(q) Type of protection for nonmeallic pipe.
(r) Nominal pipe size with lenlths shown to scale.
NOTE: . wan typical branch line pewvail. tt wdi be neces-
say to size only one line.
(s) Ltxation and size of riser nipples.
(t) Type of flttinll and joints and location of air welds and
bends.
(u) Types and locations of hasSen. sleeves. braces. and
methods of secunnI spnnklers, where applicable.
:: . , .~-, ,
13R-8
iNSTALlATION OF SpRINKI,.F=It SYSTEMS IN RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIEI UP TO FOUR STORII$ IN HII01.~'r'
(v) AJl control valves, check valves, drain pipes, and test 2-1.2.2 When the authority having jurisdiction desires to
connections. be present during the conducting of acceptance tests, the
(w) Underground pipe size, length, location, weight, ma- installer shall give advance notification of the time and date
the testing will be performed.
terial, point of connection to city main; the type of valves,
roeten, and valve ptts; and the depth at which the top of the.m~.l.3 Acceptance Tests.
pipe is laid below grade.
(x) For hydraulically designed systems, the material to be
included on the hydraulic data nameplate.
(y) Name and address of contractor.
2-1.2 Approval of Sprinkler System.
2-1.2.1 The installer shall perform all required acceptance
tests (see 2-1.3), complete the Contractor's Material and
Test Certificate{s) (see Fi~w,e 2-1.2.1), and forward the
certificate(s) to the authority having jurisdiction, prior to
asking for approval of the installation.
2-1.3.1 Flushing of Underiround Connections.
2-1.3.1.1 Underground mains and le~d-in connections to
system risers shall be flushed before connection is made to
spnnkler piping, in order to remove foreign materials that
may have entered the underground piping during the course
of the installation. For all systems, the flushing operation
shall be continued until water is clear.
2-1.3.1.2 Underground mains and lead-in connections
shall be flushed at the hydraulicaliy calculated water de-
mand rite of the system.
CONTRACTOIrSMAT'F, RIAL&TESTCERTIRCATEFOR ABOVEGROUNOPIPING
pROCstaUIll
cavil
mllflvlm
va, w$
Tinelm
p$S$l$~l$l m~liSum$
2-1.3.1.3 To avoid property damage. provision shall be
made for the d~sposal of water tssumg from test outlets.
2-1.3.2- -~ll systems shall be tested for leakage at 50 psa
,34 barsl 3e~o,e maxlaura s~.stem deslgrl pressure.
E ~'e~t~n ~t '~e~ u.,~re ~epan,~e~t c'o~necHo~ zs p~,'~ded.
~t;~ ~FR~ .'i S;a.~;ra tbr :~e InstailaHon ot
2-2 Design and Installation.
2-;1.1 Devices and Materials.
2-Z.l.l' Only new sprmklers shall be emplo?ed in the
mstailatmn o~ sprmkler systems.
13R-~
2-2.1.2 Only listed or approved devices and mater,,als as
adzcared m thts standard shall be used m sprmKier 5'., s;ems.
'.-2.1.3 SpnnkLer s.,,stems shall be desegned for a magi-
mum workmS pressure of 175 ps~ I 12. t barsL
E.~ceptzon.' Higher design pressures mav be used., ,re,, .~,,,t
system components are rated tbr pressures i~gher .lan l '5 p~t
l 2 I bars) '
2-3 Water Supply.
2-3.1 General Provisions. Emery automattc sprmkler s~s-
tern shall have at least one automatic water suppit. Wh'en
stored water ~s used as the sole source
mintmum quanttty shall equal the water ~emand rate'ttmes
30 mmutes. lSee .?-L 1.3.)
3&rl
all
Film~e 2-1.2.1 (Corntam)
Coalta~oe's Material and Test Ceftillc~te foe AINleelroend Pipme
13R-t0
iNSTALLATION OF SpRINKLeR SYSTEMS IN RF.31DENTIAL OCCTjPANCIF=3 UP TO FOUR ~fORlF_q tN H~:iGH~
2-3.2' Water Supply Sources. The following water supply
sources are acceptable:
(a) A connection to a reliable water works system with or
without a booster pump, as required. (b) An elevated :ank.
(c) A pressure sank installed in accordance with NFPA
13, Standard for :he Installalton of Sprinkler Systems, and
NFPA 22, Standard for ~hter Tanks for Private Fire Protee-
lion.
(d) A stored water source with an automatically operated
pump, installed in accordance with NFPA 20, Standard for
~he ln.vtallation of Centrifugal Fire Pumps.
2-3.3 Multipurpose Piping System.
2-3.3.1' A common supply main to the building, serving
both spnnklers and domestic uses, shall be acceptable when
the domestic design demand is added to the spnnlder
system demand.
Exception.' Domestic design demand need not be added if
provision is made to prevent flow on the domestic water
system upon operation of sprinklers.
2-3.3.2 Spnnkler systems with nonfire protection connec-
tions shall comply with Section 5-6 of NFPA [ 3, Standard
for the/nstallatWn of Sprintder Systems.
2-4 System Components.
24.1 Valve and Drains.
24.1.1 When a common supply main is used to supply
both domestic and sprinkler systems, a single listed control
valve shall be provided to shut off both the domestic and
spnnkler systems, and a separate shutoff valve shag1 be
provided for the domestic system only. [See Figure
A-2-j.2[a/.]
Exception: The sprinkler system piping may have a sepa-
rate control valve when supervised by one of the following
method-v:
(a; Central station. proprietary, or remote station alarm
~ervtce,
(b; Local alarm service that will cause the sounding of an
audible signal at a constantly artended point, or
(c; Lockzng the valves open.
2-4.1.2 Each sprinkler system shall have a t-in. (25.4-mm)
or larger drain and test connecUon with valve on the system
side of the control valve.
24.1.3 Additional $A-in. (13-ram) drains shall be installed
for each trapped portion of a dry system that is subject to
freezing temperatures.
d~-4.2 At least one l t/2 in. {38 ram) or 2s/z in. (64 ram) fire
h 1
department connection sal be provided when the spnn-
kler system has 20 spnnklers or more.
2-4.3 Pressure Gages. Pressure gages shall be provided to
indicate pressures on the supply and system sides of main
check valves and dry-pipe valves, and to indicate pressure
on water supply pressure tanks.
24.4 Piping Support. Piping hanging and bracing meth-
ods shall comply with NFPA 13, Standard for the Instatla-
:,<~. ;/'.~prmkler Systems.
2-4.5 Sprinklers.
2-4.5.1 Listed residential sprinklen shall be used inside
dwelling units. The basis of such a listing shall consist of
tests to establish the ability of the sprinklers to control
residential fires under standardized fxre test conditions. The
standardized room fires shall be based on a residential array
of furnishing and finishes.
Exception No. i: Residential sprinklers shail not be used in
dry systems unless specifically listed for that purpose.
Exception No. 2: Other types of listed sprinklers may be
installed in accordance with their listing in dwelling units
meeting the definition of a compartment (us defined in
2-5. 1.2.2} provided no more than four sprinklers are located
in the dwelling unit and at leust one smoke detector is
provided in each sleeping room.
2-4.5.2 Ordinary temperature rated sprinklers [135 to
170'F (57 to 77'C)] shall be installed where maximum
ambient ceiling temperatures do not exceed 100'F (38'C).
2-4.53 Intermediate temperature rated residential spriu-
klers [175 to 225'F (79 to t07'C)] shall be installed where
maximum ambient ceilinI temperatures are between I01
and tS0'F (38 and 66'C).
2-4.5.4 The following practices shall be observed when
installing residential sprinklers, unless maximum expected
ambient temperatures are otherwise determined-
(a) Sprinklers under glass or plastic skylights exposed r
direct rays of the sun shall be of intermediate temperarut
classification.
(b) Spti_nklers in an taxventilated concealed space under
an uninsuiated roof, or in an unventilated attic, shall be of
intermediate temperature classification.
2-4.5_~ When residential sprinklers are installed within a
compartment, as defined in 2-5.1.2.2, all sprinklers shall bc
from the same manufacturer and have the same heat-
response element, including temperature rating_
Exception.' Di~'trent temperature ratings are permitted
when required by 2-4.§.4.
2-4.5.6 Standard sprinklers shall be used in areas outside
the dwelling uniL
Exception No. I: Residential sprinklers may be ~ed in
adjoining corridors or lobbies with fiat, smooth ceilingOt and a
tzeight not exceeding lO yi (3.0 m).
Exception No. 2: Quick-response sprinklers may be zaed in
accordance with 2-5.2, F,.r. ception No. I.
2-4.5.7 Operated or damaged sprinklers shall be replaced
with sprinklers having the same performance charadenat/ca
as original equipment.
2-4.5.8 When nonmetallic ceiling plates (escutcheons) are
used, they shall be listed. Escutcheon plates used to create
recessed or flush-type sprinkler shall be part of a list
sprinkler assembly.
2-4.5.9 Painting and Ornamental Finishes.
2-4.5.9.1 Sprinkler frames may be factory ~amtcd or
enameled as ornamental finish in accordance with 2-4.5.9.2;
oth - ~!ukler.. ~b~") "~" be.. painted and any spinets
that have been pa,nted. except those ,,.,,th r'actor.~. applied E. rceptcon.' Speczal ,'esldenttal sprinklers ~ilaii hi,
coatings. shall be replaced w,th new listed sprinklers. :n accordance ,, tth tile hsttng l'ztrtttattOnS
2-4.5.9.2- Ornamental fimshes shall not be apptted to "-5.1.7.2 Sidewall spnnklers shall be posluoned so that
sDrlnkZers b.,. an?.one other than the spnnkler manufacturer,
and anb sprinklers hstecl ~.~th such r~ntshes shall be used. the cle~ectors are v. tthtn 4 to 6 in. ~ 102 to 152 mini from me
ceiling.
;4.a6 ~tarrns. Local ~.ate rflow alarms shall be ~rov,ded Exceptton. Special residential sprinklers shall be installed
II sar:~c!er s!.stems and snail be connecteel to the :n czcce~raanc. e ,~tth cite [t.~tznf ttn, tttatzon$.
b,atidlng nre .~t2r,m s~.s~e,m. ',~nen pro~tded.
2-5.1.,".3' Sprinklers shall be positioned so that the re-
:-~ System Design. sponse time and chscharge are not undut~ affected bv
]-:$.1 Desgin Criteril--inside D~ellinI L,'~il. obstructions such as cetling slope. beams. or'hght fixtures:
2-5.1.1 Design Dischile. The s.~'stem shall provide a
d:scharge of not less than 18 lpm (68 L:min) to any single 2-~.2 Desgin Criteria--Outside Dwelli~I L'nit. The de-
operating sprinkler and not less than t 3 gpm {49 L./mln) per sign titscharge. number of design sprinklers. water demanct
sprinkler to the number of design sprinklers. but not less of the s.',stem. sprinkler coverale. and posmon of sprinkLers
than the listing of the sprinklerIs). For areas to be sprinklered outside the dwethng unit shall
comply with specifications in NFPA [3. Standard
E. cceptton: Deszgn dtsc/targe /or sprtnk/ers installed in ac- /nstat/ation of'Sprinkler Systems.
cordante ,~ tth E. rceptton .Vo. 2 ,Jr' :.4 5.1 fhal/ be zn ac'c'or- ' ·
cianc'e ,~zth ~prtnk/er /zstzn.sr c'rtterta. ~r.~:ceptton .%'0. 1.' 14.'hen comparrmented into areaT or.~oo
sq fi r46 m;} or less by ?O. mtnute fire. rated construction. and
2-5.1.2' Number of Design Sprinklers. the area is protected by standard or qutck.response ~prtnklers'
2-5.1.2.1 The number of design sprinklers shall include all not e.rceedtng IJO sq fi r12 m;I per sprmlcier. the st'stem
sprinklers within a compartment to a maxxmum of tbur demand ma.v be limited to the number ol'spnnklers in the
sprinklers. compartment area. but not less titan a tota~ o. rfout sprinklers.
Openings from the compartments need not be protected
2-S.1.2.2 The de~nition of compartment for use in ProvidedsuchoPentngsareprovtdedwithalinttlatleaTtain.
r20] ram) tn depth and the total area o/such olRntngs dots
2-5. t.2. [ to determine the number of destin spnnklers is a not exceed !0 sqfi ~4.6 m;}/or each compartment. D~schar~e
space that is completely enclosed by walls and a ceiling. The
compartment enclosure may have opening to an adjoining den.city shall be appropnate.lbr tier ha:ard c/a. sstficatton as
space if the openings hive a minimum lintel depth of 8 in. determined by .VFP..4 IJ.
(203 ram) From the ceiling. ~.~ceptton .Vo. 2: Lobbies. tn other than hotels and motels.
/o.vers. c'orrtdors. and halls outside the d~ellzng t,nt.
2-5.1.3 W~ter Demand. The water demand for the system fiat. smooth c'etlt'ngs and not exceeding IU li rJ 0 m~
shall be determined by multiplying the design dischabit of height. may be protected with residential fprt~klers. ,~'zth a
2-5. [. I b~' the number of design spnnklers of 2-5.1.2. maTtmum system demand of four sprtnklers.
2-5.1.4 Sprinkler Coverale.
2-5.1.4.1 Residential spnnklen shall be spaced so that the 2-S.3 Pile Sitte1. PipinI shill be sized in accordance
maximum area protected by a sanlie spnnkler does not w,th h.,.drauhccalculitton procedures to comply w~th NFP.~.
exceed L44 $q rt ( 13.4 m~). [ ]. Standard.for the Installalton o.f'Spnnkler S. vstems.
~-~.1.4.2 The maximum distance between sprinklers shill Lm:mtee dSIwimlr. lef.. Spnnklets shall be instilled trt
not e.,tcced t: t't ~3.7 ml and the maximum distance to a all areas.
~.all or partit,on stroll not exceed 6 ft ( 1.8 ml. EYxception b'o. I: Spnnklers mar be omitted l~m hatit-
rooms not e. rceeding JJ sq .a (J. 1 n.Fi with non~ombttsttOle
2-5.1.4.3 The minimum distinct between spnnklers w~th- plumbmg/tvtures.
in a comportmerit shall be 8 ft (2.4 m).
Exception ~o. 2: Sprinklers may be omitted/r~bn ~'mat/
2-~. 1 .S The minimum operatinI pressure of any spnnkler clothes closets -'here Ute least dtme.;nszun dots not exceed J
shall be m accorddace with the listtnl infisrmation or' the rO. Bmiandtheareadoesnote.~ceed24sq/tr2.2m:jandthe
sprinkler and shall provide the minimum flow rates speci- .all~ and ceiling are sot. laced .'tth nuncombu~tzble or hml:.
~ed in 2-5. I.t. ed combustible matertals a~ de.l~ned b.t' .%'FP.4 220. Standard
on T. vpes Of Building Constntctton.
2-5.1.6 -~pphcatton rates. desiin areis. areis of coverage. .r.~tt~taaa A~ i' Fp-;~kl,wt --~' ~'- ,' ,nt~ ~ ~.~
and m:ntmum ctcsLgn pressures other than those specified in ,,,"'~telt, !~aN~IJ. bdifOfllll. ~e"';inr~ r,.,t ftef~i.
2-5.1.1.2-5.1.2. 2-5.1.4. and 2-5.1.:~ ma.v be used with Exception .Vo. 4: Sprinklers may be nmttted.lrom
special sprinklers that have been listed t~r such specific penthouse equipment rooms. crawl spaces. Jloor/cethnlr
residential restdilation conditions. er. elevator fhali$. and other concealed spaces that are
used o1' mienarti fice living purposes or slurate.
2-5.1.7 Position of Residential SIfinklen.
Z-5.1.?.l Pendent and upright spnnklers shill be pose- 2-7' Maintenance. The owner ts responsible t~r :he ,:.~n-
tioned so that the deflectors are wtthm I to41n. 125.41o 102 dttion ofa sprmklers.vstem and shill keep the s~stem
mml from the tedroe. normal operating condition.
13R-12
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RF~IDENT1AL OCCUPANCIES UP TO FOUR STORIES IN HEIGHT' '
Chapter 3 Referenced publications
3-1 The following documents or portions thereof are refer-
enced within thzs standard and shall be considered part of
the requirements or' this document. The edition indicated
for each reference is the current edition as of the date of the
NFPA issuance of this document.
3-1.1 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Asso-
ciation, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
NFPA 13-1989, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler
Systems
NFPA 20-1987, Standard for the Installation of Centrifu-
gal Fire Pumps
NFPA 22-i 987, Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire
Protection
NFPA 74-1989, Standard for the Installation. Mainte.
nance. and Use of Household Fire Warning Equipment
NFPA 201®-1988, Life Safety Code*
N FPA 220-1985, Standard on Type of Building Construe-
lion.
3-1.2 Other Publications.
3-1.2.1 ANSI Publications. American National Standards
Institute, Inc., ~430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.
ANSI B 16.1 - 1975, Cast .rron Pipe Flanges and FinnBed
Fittmgs. Cla.Ts 25. 125. 250 and 800
ANSI Bl6.3-1985, Malleable Iron Threaded Fittings,
Class I50 and 300
ANSI B16.4-1985, Cast Iron Threaded Fitting Classes
i25 and 250
AN S I B t 6.5- t 981, Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
ANSI B16.9-1986, Factory-Made Wrought Steel Butt-
welding Fittings
ANSI B 16. l 1 - 1980, Forged Steel Fittings, Sock.~t- Welding
and Threaded
ANSI B16.18-I 984, Ca~t Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pres-
sure Fittings
ANSI B16.22-1980, Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy
Solder Joint Pressure Fitting~
ANSI B 16.25- t 986, Buttwelding l~nds
ANSI B36.10M-1985, Welded and Seamless Wrought
Steel Pipe.
3-1.2.2 ASTM Publications. American Society for Testing
and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
ASTM A 53 - t 987, Standard Specification for Pipe, Steel,
Black and Hot-Dipped, Zinc-Coated Welded attd Seamlets
Steel Pipe
ASTM A135-1986, Standard Specification for Electric-
Resistance- Welded Steel Pipe
ASTM A234- t 987, Standard Specification for Piping Fit-
rings of Wrought-Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate
and Elevated Temperatures
ASTM A795-1985,' Specification for Black and Hot,
Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamlets
Steel Pipe for Fire Protection Use
ASTM B32-1987, Standard Specification for Solder
M'etal. 95-5 (Tin-Antimony-Grade 95TA}
ASTM B88-1986, ,Standard Specification for Seamless
Copper Water Tube
ASTM B251-1987, Standard Specification for General
Requirements for Wrought Seamless Copper and Copper-
AHoy Tube
ASTM E380- t 986, Standard for Metric Practice.
3-1.23 AWS Publication. American Welding Society,
2501 N.W. 7th Street, Miami, FL 33125.
AWS A5.8- t 981, Specification for Brazing Filler Metal.
Api~ndix A
2'his ,4plxndix t~ not a ~an of t~e reqmremenU of ~ NFPA ~t but
~ incl~for infor~mn ~u o~.
A-I-I N~A I3R ~ approp~ate for ~ o~y in ~denti~
Occupnci~, u n op~on to N~A 13, ~ for the
I~tallation of SprinM~ System, ~ de~ in ~ s~-
d~a, up to fo~ sto~ in heine. hidenfi~ po~ons of
any o~er bu~ding may ~ pmt~ed wi~ residenti~ spfin-
kle5 in accordance ~ ~ l 1.2.9 of N~A 13, $tandard fo
zhe/~z~/laaoa of$prm~ ~sle~. O~er portions of such
seaions sho~d be pwt~ed in a~or~nce ~th N~A 13.
The cnteha m ~ s~d ~ bMed on f~l-sc~e ~e
tesu of room con~ng ~i~ f~in~ fo~d
residen~ ~ving roo~, ht~ens, nd betook. The fur-
nishin~ were ~ged M ~i~y fo~d ~ d~ng
in a m~er si~ to ~at sho~ ~ Fip A-l-l{a), ~),
tw~sto~ dwe~ng in ~s ~gel~, C~on nd 16 t~ts
we~ condua~ m a ~ (4.3-m) ~ mob~e home
Chglo~, No~ ~ Sp~ ~e~ ~siped
in~ ~r~ng to t.i~ m~d ~ ~ ~ prevent
tiMhover ~in ~ ~m~ent of oh~ ff sp~en are
i~ed in ~e wmp~nL A ~er ~em d~ip~
~d iM~ a~r~ to ~ m~d my noL however,
be ex~ to ~n~[ a ~ mvol~ ~y h~er
average N~ lu~ ~ ~i~ for d~ m~ [10 p~i (0.7
b~)], co~p~o~ of ~h o~ ~ ~og ~
r~iden~ ~pu~ or ~n~o~ wh~ ~e interior
finish hM ~ un~y ~ ~e sp~ n~g (~eater
thn 225).
To be eff~ve, sp~er system ~ ~ a~ordance
wi~ ~s sm~d mm ~ve ~e sp~en ~os~t to
fire o~n befo~ ~e ~ ex~ ~e ab~W of ~e sph~ler
dischic to a~np~ or ~n~i ~t ~. Con~ons ~at
~low ~e ~e to ~w ~ond ~t ~mt ~fo~ spd~ler
activation or ~at inte~e~ ~ ~e q~W of water
bution can produce con~ons ~yond ~e upab~ities o
the spn~ler system de~d ~ ~ s~d. Unusu~'
hi~ ceilin~ or ceiling co~p~o~ that tend to divert
rising hot ~ from spree l~a~o~ or chnge th,
spnnkler diicMq~ pat~m from i~ s~d pattern can
produce fire condi~o~ ~at ~not ~ ex~nguished or
controlled by the systems d~nb~ in this stndard.
13R-
90"
~r~l~n$ ~vlr V~.~,ClOW
54"
71"
For SI Units: I Ln. - 214 rnm.
Fill~A-i-l(a) Bedroeal.
Home Bedroom
For SI
Mobile Home Bedroom.
L,vingroom
T' !
3,'/," :~) f
33W'
· ~ ~ 54"
' CWl
I C
90"
WindowArea
/
Sofa
Ena Tal~e
L~mO
Chair
CurtlenS
SOtinkier
For Sl Urn,e: Im. · 214 ram.
Fill~ A-!-I(c) [.ivinI Reem.
13R-14
INSTALI.~TION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RF..'~IDENTIAL OCCUPANCIF~ UP TO FOUR $TORIE~ IN HEIGHT' '
Fires- 123,000
Table A-I-2
Annual Averages of Deaths and Injuries in Apartments
1980-1984
Civilian Deaths-930
Percentages by Area of Origin
Civilian Injuries-5,470
Area of Origin (~01 Code) Civilian Deaths (Used for Ranking) Fires Civilian Injuries
Living room, den, lounge (t4) 38.5 i l .3 23.2
Bedroom (21-22) 28.7 t 7.4 27. t
Kitchen (24) 9.8 35.3 27.2
Hallway co rridor ( t 0 1 ) 4.3 3.2 3.4
Interior stairway (03) 3.2 1.0 1.1
Structural Area (70-79) 3. l 8.1 3.5
[Balcony, porch (72)I (1.2) (1.3) (0.7)
{Unspeci~ed (79)] (1.0) (0.5) (0.2)
[CeiLing~Roof assembly (74)] (0.3) (0.7) (0.3)
Lobby (05) t.3 0.6 0.7
Dining room (23) t,2 0.8 1.0
Closet (42) t.2 1.9 1.9
Balcony, porch (72) t.2 1.3 0.7
Other known single area 4. t 17.8 8.8
[Bathroom ( 25)1 (0.6) (2. t ) (t.3)
Multiple areas (97) 1.6 0.7 0.9
Uncla.ssified, not
applicable (98-99) 1.8 0.6 0.5
Total: 100.0 100.0 100.0
A-I-2 Levels of Protection. Various levels of sprinkler
protection are available to provide life safety and property
protection. The standard is designed to provide a high, but
not absolute, level of life safety and a lesser level of property
protection. Greater protection to both life and property
could be achieved by sprinklering all areas in accordance
with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinlder
Systems, which permits the use of residential sprinklers in
residential areas.
This standard recommends, but does not require, sprin-
· klenng of all areas in the building it permits sprinklers to
be omitted in certain areas. These areas axe the ones shown
by NFPA statistics to be ones where the incidence of life loss
from fires in residential occupancies is low. Such an ap-
proach provides a reasonable degree of fire safety to life.
(See Table 7t-1-2 for Deaths and Injuries in Multifamily
Residential Buildings.}
It should be recogtized that the omission of sprinklers
from certain areas could result in the development of
untenable conditions in adjacent spaces. Where evacuation
times may be delayed, additional sprinkler. protection and
other fire protection features, such as detection and com-
partmentation, may be necessary.
A-2-1.3.2 Testing of a system can be accomplished by
filling 'the system with water and checking visually for
leakage at each joint or coupling.
Fire department connections are not required for all
systems covered by this standard, but may be installed at
the discretion of the owner. In these cases, hydrostatic tests
in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Insta/latwn
of SprtnMer Systems, are required.
Dry systems should also be tested by placing the system
under air pressure. Any leak that results in a drop in system
pressure greater than 2 psi (0.14 bar) in 24 hours should be
corrected. Check for leaks using soapy water brushed on
each joint or coupling. Leaks will be shown by the presence
of bubbles. This test should be made prior to concealing of
piping.
A-2-2.1.1 At least three spare sprinklers of each type,
temperature rating, and orifice size used in the system
should be kept on the premises. When fused sprinklers are
replaced by the owner, fire depaxtment, or others, caxe
should be taken to assure that the replacement sprinkler has
the same operating cbancteristics.
A-2-3.2 Conn~jon for fu~ protection to city mains is
often subject to local regulation concerning metering and
backflow prevention requirements. Preferred and accepta-
ble water supply arrangements are shown in Figures
A-2-3.2(a), (b), and (c). When a meter must be used between
the city water main and the sprinkler system supply, an
acceptable arrangement is shown in Figure A-2-3.2(c).
Under these circumstances, the flow characteristics of, the
meter must be included in the hydraulic calculation of the
system. When a tank is used for both domestic and fire
protection purposes, a low water alarm acuated when the
water level falls below I l0 percent of the minimum quaall-
ty specified in 2-3.1 should be provided.
A-2-3.3.1 The tables on the following page can be used
to determine a domestic design demand. Using Table
A-2-3.3.1{a), determine the total number of water supply
fixture units downstream of any point in the piping serving
both sprinkler and domestic needs. Using TabLe
A-2-3.3.1{b), determine the appropriate total flow allow-
ance, and add this flow to the sprinkler demand at the to-
tal pressure required for the sprinkler system at that-
point.
A-24.5.9.2 Decorative painting of a residential sprinkler
is not to be confused with the temperature identification
Filure A-Z-3.Z(a}
Preferable ArrasIntent.
~PPE",OIX k
Teble ~-2-3.3.1(a) Fixture Load ~alues
Pri,itm facilities (within individual dwetlinI units)
Bathroom lroup with flush tank i lncludmI
lavatory. waler C|OSet, and bathtub with shower)
Bathroom group wtth/lush valve
Bathi-t)
DIshwasher
K~tchen sink
/'--City Water MI,n
t = _ C.rv Gate I m C; tv Gate
Valve Valve
"""
7// ///lll/I//I////l/Jlll/ll
I
live
'~qu~oer ~acea tOOt,on Reference ~Watlr
C~ecK iY~7'~ 24 1 I Exception Meter
NO. 1)
~G~t Oomest,c
It glOW ~ Valve
Dram and Test Oet~or
Connect on ~P.essure G~I
~ To Automat,c ~ To Oomest,c
SOr,nkllr SYstem
System
Fi~R A-Z-3.Z(b) Am~i ~sae wieb
Sg~jl~. (~ff 2-4. L ~ LcctFuoR.)
-'-C;tv WIser MIen
,_f,,C'itv Gate
valve
l/l/l/l/IlL !111/!II!11,
Witif IliUM Water
DillIll Sllrtnkllf ~ Meter
P-essute GiiJl COntrol VIIvn Mlmn COntrOl
,o.,,o.:..,.,...v.,.
r No. 1) ~r,q
Pre$1ure Gaee Shut-off
C)ram anti Test Vamve
Con~K~on 'Rut}Oer
CheeN Valve
'Rut)Oct ;iceit Checl( Vamve$ OIDt,Onl,.
FilMre A-Z-,t.Z(e) AccqgsMe Arranpmeal witll Valve
SMR'p'iIiol. (3re 2.4./,/~.cceptlon.)
13R-;F
Laundry cra.vs
Lavatory
Shower stall
Wash,hi machme
Water closet wtth flush valve
Water closet wttA ~h tank
Public Facilities
Bathtub
Dnnkinl fountain
Kjtchen smk
Liratory
Service sink
Shower head
Unnal with L in, flusA v~lve
Unnl/with V, in. flush valve
L'nnal with flush tank
wahlnl machine (8 Ib)
wminl machie ( I 6
Water c|o$~t with flush valve
Water closet with flush tank
TnbJe A-2-aJ.l(b) Total Estimatod Domestic Demand
Total FixM Toll Demand in Gallons Per Minute
Loml Units Fff System with For Systems wit|
Ifmm TaMe Pmlomimdy Predominantly
A-Z-J.J.I(a)I Rush Tuks Flush Vsi,es
3 gpm
5 t0 l 5 gpm
l0 15 25
20 20 35
35 25
50 30 ,~0
TO 35 60
lO0 45 '0
150 55 ~0
200 65 ~0
250 75
350 100 t25
~00 125 t 50
750 175 ,'1
I000 200 :00
1500 275
2060 325 325
3500 500 500
colon as referenced in 3-t 1.6 of NFPA 13. Standard
Installation of SpnnMer Systems.
A-2-5.1.2 It is intended th.~t the design area ,s to ,nclu~
up to tour adjacent spnnklen producing the greatest ~,,~I~
demand within the compartment.
A-2-5.1.7.3 Fire testing has indicated the need to v,c:., ~.
mn t~e area protected by residential ~prlnkAcrs ,tt - ....
13R-!6
INSTALIJ~TION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RESIDENTTAL OCCUPANCIE~ UP TO FOUR $'rOIUF.~ IN HEIGHT '
Ceiling ~
I Exceed M m~ m
Ceiling Not to 8x~ u
/ Maximum Distance
0effector Above
Bottom of
Ceiling 01:)struct~on
Distance From Near Side
of Ceding Obstruction
Figu:e A-2-5.1.7.3
Position of Dd~'tor, Upright or Pendent,
When I.~,ated Above Bottom ot Ceilial Obsa'ucdon.
closer to the ceiling than that accomplished by standard
spnnkler distribution. Where beams, light ~ttures, sloped
ceilings, and other obstructions occur, additional residen-
tial spnnklers may be necessary to achieve proper response
and distribution, and a greater water supply may be neces-
sary.
TabLe A-2-5.1.7.3 and Figure A-2-5.1.7.3 provide ~uid-
ance for location of spnnkiers near ceiling obstructions.
Table A-2-5.1.7,3 Msximum Distsace from Sprialder
Deflector to BoSom of Ceilinl Ohmaction
Distance from Sprinkler
to Side of Ceiling Obsmaction
L:ss than 6 in.
6 in. to tess than tft
tft to less than 2 ft
2 ft to less than 2 ft 6 in.
2 ~ 6 in. to less than 3 ft
3 fi to less than 3 ft 6 in.
3 fi 6 in. to less than 4 ft
4 ft to less than 4 ft 6 in.
4 ft 6 in. to less than 5 fi
5 ft to less than 5 ft 6 in.
5 ft 6 in, to less than 6 ft
For Sl Umu: t In. - 25.,1 ram: I fi - 0.3048 m.
Ms,~dmm Distaace
from Sprinkler Deflector
to Bottom of
CeiUal Obsms~lea
Not permitted
0 m.
tm.
2 ,n.
3 m.
4 m.
6 m.
7 m.
9 m.
11 zn.
14 in.
A-2-7 The responsibility for properly maintaining a spnn-
klcr system is the obligation of the owner or manager, who
should understand the sprinkler system operation. A mini-
mum monthly maintenance program should include the
following:
(a) Visual inspection of all sprinklers to ensure against
obstruction of spray.
(b) Inspection of all valves to assure that they arc open.
(c) Testing of all waterllow devices.
(d) Testing of the alarm system, if installed.
NOTE: When it appears libly that the test will result in a
restrise of the ire d~partm~nt, noMadon to the fire
department should b~ made prior to the test.
(e) Operation of pumps, where employed, should be
operated. See NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of
Centrifugal Fire Pumps.
(f) Checking of the presswe of air used with dry system.
(g) Checking of water level in tanks.
Tsbb A-2-7
[aspection. Testha1. sad Malamasace Boqmnu
Comportsat Activity Fmqmmcy Reference
Control Valve hugon Monthly
Mlht~ Annually NFPA "'13A,
2-7.1.4
Main Drtin Valve Flow Test Annually NlrPA 13A,
2-6.1
Inspectors'
Test Valve Flow Test Annually
Waterflow Alarm Flow Test Annually NFPA t 3A,
4-5.3,
4-7.1
Spnnklers Test 50 Yrs. NFPA 13A,
3-3.3
Spnnkiers,
Res/Ql~. Test 20 Yrs. NF'PA 13A.
3-3.4
Pump Flow Test Annually NFPA
2-4.2.5
Anti freeze
Solutions Test Annually NFPA
4-7.3
/..,/\
13R-~ '
(h) Care should be taken to see that spnnkIers are not
painted either at the time of installation or dunng subse-
quent redecoratton. When painting spnnkter proprang or
painting in areas -ext to spnnklen. the spnnklets may be
protected by covering with a I:>ag, which should be removed
zmmedzately after paaat|ng ts ~nished.
For Curther information see NFPA 13A. Recommended
P.ac::ce '~? :~e /,~spectton. Testing and Maintenance of
~cprtnKler ,~ s:ems.
Appendix B Referenced Publiclttons
this document. The edition indicated for each reference ts
the current edition as of the date of the NFPA Issuance
this document.
B-!.l NFPA Publint'ions. National Fire Protection .~sso-
clarion. Batterymarch Park. Quahey. MA 02269.
N F'PA 13 - t 989, Standard for the Installation o/Sprz nkler
S. vstems
NFPA 13A-1987. Recommended Practice/or ,'be [nspec.
iron. Testing and Ma,ntenance o. r Sprxnkler S.vs[ems
NFPA 20-1987. Standard/or the Installation o/' Centrt/~,~-
gal Fire Pumps.
B-I The following documents or portions thereof are
referenced within this standard for informational purposes
only and thus are not considered pan of the requirements of
'g89 ~:,!.o~
13R-~8
INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS ~N REStDENT!AL OCCUPANC!IS UP TO FOUR STORIES IN HEIGHT
Indox
1989 Nz.onzl Fire Prothe.on AMocizcson, all nRhu rcsc~ved.
The coprragr{t ~n timls index gs scpara[c a.qci clisunct from t~e copyrtght in t~c ~umcnt which ~t ind__. ~e licc~I p~tsio~ ~g for~ for ~c d~cng gc
noc appti~le to ~LS mda. ~s mdcx may noc N rep~uced m whole or ta pm by ~y m~ wireout ~c aprw ~t~ ~an of me Nmo~ r~
P~cecuon ~oczzuon. inc.
-A-
Ju:cel~taace temu ............................... 2-[.3, A-2-1.3.2
flushing unctetlrouncl ¢onne,'tions ........................ 2-1.3.1
Alarms ............................................... 2-4.6
Waterflow
A. ati~ SOlartom ................................... 1-6.2. 1
Apptov. l of tymte~m .......................... 2-12, Fil. 2-1.2.1
-C-
Componefiu, ~em .....................................
Coeae~Uoa. a, ate ~epaftmeal ................... A-2-1.3,2, A-2-3.2
-D-
Dqmila amd iam,-.*tioa .............................. 2-2, A-2-2
Devicel tud matenail ............................ 2-2.1, A-2-2.1
Syslem .......................................... 2-$, A-2-$
Crixeria, iusSde ciwelliul uuit ............................ 2-$. I
Criteria, ouuicie dwelliul unit ........................... 2-$.2
Fin testiuI ...................................... A-$-17.3
SysLem components .....................................
water supply ......................... ~ ........... 2-3, A-2-3
Oemilm aLtr. Male ................................ see DLs~aule
Detector. wszer~ow
DeEmUoa ............................................ l -3
Detiniuou ............................................ 1-3
Dt'alal ............................................... 2-4.1
Dr~ totem ................................. l-6.1(b). A-2-i.3.2
Defxuttioa ............................................. 1-3
Dw~LL~l unlC
-F-
FinLaSs .......................................... l-$.l, 1-$.7
Matertall and dinsenaionl ........................... Table t-$. 1
-i-
Prote~uon of .........................................l -6.2
Sizial of ............................................2-$.3
Support .............................................24.4
!qpial ~l, wm, mmlUimrlMxe ....................2-3.3. A-2-3.3.1,
Tablem A-2-3.3.1 (a and b)
Definition .............................................t -3
Preamare Iqm ........................................24.3
Pre~e~Jam. leve. M ¢~ ........ .A-l-2, Fill A-I*I (a ~ c), Table A-I-2
~ ot'slandanl ................................1-2, A-I-1
-It-
De6mtioa ............................................. 1-3
-S-
kop¢ of mdatd .................................. l-l, A-I-I
SprUdUers ............................................
Autocurie
Defmitiou ........................................... 1
Coverall ........................................... 2-$.1
LoraUom oL ........................................... 2
Number of ................................. 2-$.1.2, A-2-$.1..
Pai,,$iq aud orl~mea~l klLtte$ ................ 2-4.$.9, A-2-4.$.9.:.
Position of ................................. 2-$.1.7, A-2-$.1.7
Remidealial ............................. 2-4.$.1, 2-4.$.4,
DeAmtio,, ........................................... 1 - 3
Sprtnlda. sys~
Approval of .......................................... 2- L.2
De~xitio,, ............................................. t - 3
MNntem~a ..................................... 2-7, A-2-7
Detiuiuon ............................................. t -3
-T-
Tes~ ..................................... see A~x~eptance tests
-U-
Ual~ of measurement ................................... -4
~nsbslJ~lon ........................... see Dailn and instaXation
-V-
-j.
Joints ................................................ 1
-M-
vadm ................................................ 2-4. L
DehiUon ........................................... t-3
Conu'oi
De~mUom ........................................... 1-3
-W-
Mmufement .......................... see Units o[ measurement
-p.
PipinI ................................................. ! - $
Materials and dimensions ........................... Table t-5. t
water demand ....................................... 2-5.i
Sources ....................................... 2-3.2. A-2-3..
Wascraew dmrm ................................... see AJa,r'ms
We~]m~emM ........................................... 1-6.[
Detimuon ............................................. ~ -3
mnklal taae~ ......................................... 2-1. L
August !5, lggO
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAIVIONGA
STAFF REPORT
1977
TO:
Mayor, Members of the City Council and City Manager
FROM:
Jerry Grant, Building Official
SUBJECT: RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLER ORDINAlICE
REC0~ENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council introduce the
accompanying ordinance by reading its title and set the date of September 5
for public hearing on the document.
BACKGROUMD: On April 18, !990, the City Council directed that staff prepare a
residential fire sprinkler ordinance for submittal to the Public Safety
Commission for review and recommendation. On June 5, 1990 and subsequently on
June 12, 19g0 the Public Safety Commission conducted a public hearing. At the
conclusion of the hearing, the Public Safety Commission made modifications to
the staff ~ubmittal and recommended that the proposal be returned to the City
Council with a recommendation for adoption. The document before you is the
result of the Public Safety Commission deliberations and conclusions.
ANALYSIS: The ordinance before you this evening is not for the purpose of
conducting a hearing but rather, for setting of a date for hearing before the
City Council as required by the government code. In the case of adoption of a
nationally recognized code or standard by reference (as is the case here)
state law requires two advertisings within a two week period prior to the
hearing. The hearing date of September 5, 1990 as recommended will allow
sufficient time to meet state noticing requirements. In addition to the
ordinance, and to allow for a broader review, we have provided the Public
Safety Commission minutes, the report submitted by the Fire District to the .~
Commission and a report on the same subject presented to the Planning
Commission in 1986.
,Jerry ~ant
Building Official
JG:ll
Y
RANCHO CUCAMONGA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
STAFF REPORT
DATE:
June 5, 1990
TO:
FROM:
Chairman and Members of the Public Safety Commission
L. Dennis Michael, Fire Chief
SUBJECT:
CONSIDERATION OF A RaCO~fi~DATION TO TBB CITY
COUNCIL REGARDING A PROPOSED RESOLUTION AND
ORDINANCB AMeNDMeNTS P-EQUIRING TBB INST~nT~TION
OP AUTOMATIC PIRB SPRI~mT.mRS IN RFaIDENTIAL
The following staff reports, proposed resolution and
o~dinance amendments are submitted for your consideration
in providing recommendation to the City Council regarding
the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in newly
constructed single and multi-family dwellings.
This matter was originally referred to the Commission by
the Board/Council. On April 3, 1990, the Commission
submitted its recommendation back to the Board/Council
regarding the use and effectiveness of automatic fire
sprinklers. On April 18, 1990, the Board/Council (after
considering Commission input and the supporting factual
information) directed staff and legal counsel to prepare
the appropriate legislative documents for Commission
consideration and
recommendation. Additionally, a public
hearing has been advertised in the'. Daily Report on May
lSth and 25th for your June 5, 1990 Commission meeting
per Board/Council direction. The Building Official and
Fire Marshal have jointly developed the attached reports,
findings of fact, resolution and proposed ordinance
amendments with appropriate direction from our legal counsel.
Fire Chief
LDM/rb
Attachments
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
June 5, !990
Public Safety Commission
Jerry Grant, Building Official
RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLER ORDINANCE
1977
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Public Safety Commission
review the attached proposals, consider any testimony received at the
hearing, and make recommendation to the City Council as to inclusion of
additional regulations into the Municipal Code regarding residential fire
sprinklers.
II.
BACKGROUND: At the City Council meeting of April 18, the Council
directed staff to prepare an ordinance regarding additional requirements
for residential fire sprinklers and referred the matter to the Public
Safety Commission ~or review, hearing, and recommendation.
The City Attorney has recommended that any provisions in this regard be
incorporated into city building regulations, in consideration of a recent
Attorney General opinion, and because all other construction regulations
in the MUnicipal Code, relating to private property, are administered by
the Building and Safety Division. He has further indicated that the fire
code, administered by the Fire District, should be revised to eliminate
conflicts between the two codes. Since the Building Code has been
developed to regulate construction and the Fire Code is a maintenance
code, the recommendation is valid.
Accordingly, the accompanying documentation includes:
(a) proposed revisions to the Uniform Building Code (Exhibit "A") that
will require installation of fire sprinklers in all new residential
buildin!is not presently designated as requiring them by the published
codes; (b) copies of two standards, NFPA 13D and NFPA 13R, (Exhibit
"B"), published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA),
annotated to reflect where changes in the content are proposed; and, (c)
an outline of the proposed modifications (Exhibit "C") incorporating a
brief explanation of the effects of the proposed changes to the Standards
and the reasons for same.
t
Publ ic Safety Commission
June 5, lggO
RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLER ORDINANCE
Page 2
It fs anticipated that when conclusions are reached in the Public Safety
Commission deliberations, the NFPA Standards will be fewfatten as
necessary to incorporate concluded modifications, reformerred to be
consistent with ~'-eady adopted Building Code Standards and presented in
ordinance form to :he City Council for further consideration.
III. ANALYSIS: The City's current building regulations include requirements
for installation of fire sprinklers in individual apartment and
condominium buildings containing more than 15 dwelling units or more than
two stories in height, and to hotels and motels containing 20 or more
guest rooms. The accompanying proposals will expand the sprinkler
requirements to all other residential structures, attached garages and
carports, and certain other detached accessory buildings.
The Standard used for installation of "conventional" sprinkler systems in
currently regulated residential buildings, Uniform Building code Standard
38-l, is based on a third Standard, {NFPA13), and is the same as is used
for commercial and industrial buildings.
The proposed Standards (NFPA Standard 130 and I~R) were developed
specifically for residential occupancies up to four stories in height,
contains exceptions for small spaces, attics, and accessory areas, has
less stringent design parameters than NFPA 13 and, in general, is more
specifically oriented to life safety than to property loss reduction.
The proposed modifications to Standards NFPA I30 and 13R will, in
general, remove many of the exceptions found in the printed Standards,
and will add additional limitations, thereby providing a higher level of
protection than the original publication.
Sprinkler provisions adopted by surrounding Jurisdictions more closely
follow the published Standards than those proposed for Rancho Cucamonga,
however, most neighboring cities vary in their requirements to some
extent. Staff will be reviewing differences between Rancho Cucamonga
proposed regUlationS and those of surrounding Juris~Jiction, in order to
develop, to the greatest extent possible, uniformit) with other cities
throughout the West End. A compliation of differences and/or further
input will be provided at the Commission meeting.
CONCLUSION: The proposals before the Commission are the result of a
number of discussions between the Building and Safety Division and Fire
District staff and represents the joint efforts of both agencies in
carrying out perceived City Council direction.
Re s pec t fu
JRG/kes
PROPOSED 8UZLDI!IG CODE MODIFICATIONS
Amend Section 3802 (h) of UBC as follows:
Group q, Division 1 Occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall
be installed throughout every Group R, Division 1 Occupancy as
follows:
In every apartment house three or more stories in height or
containing more than 15 dwelling units, and every hotel three or
more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, the
system is to be installed in accordance with UBC Standard 3B-t,
"Design Installation and Acceptance of Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Systems," except that residential or quick response standard
sprinkler heads shall be used in the dwelling unit and guest room
portions of the building· The water Row alarm for such systems
shall be monitored by an approved central station·
In all new Group R, Division I Occupancies, other than those
specified in subsection (h) I. above, the system shall be
installed in accordance with UBC Standard 38-2, "Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems, in Apartment Houses, Hotels,
Convents and ~qonasteries Less than Three Stories in Height.'
2. 'mend Section 3802 by adding Subsections (i) and (J) as follows:
(i)
Group R, Division 3 Occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkling system
shall be installed in all new Group R, Division 3 Occupancies.
System design and installation shall be conducted in accordance with
UBC Standard 38-4, 'Installation of Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems
in Dwellings and Lodging Houses.'
(j)
Group ~q, Division 1 Occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkling system
shall be installed in all new Group Iq, Division 1 Occupancies
constructed within ten feet (10') of a residential occupancy.
EXCEPTION: Group ~q, Division 1 Occupancies exempt from permit
requirements by Section 301(b) 1 of the Uniform Administrative
Code, as adopted.
Private garages and/or carports attached or accessory to residential
buildings may be supplied from the system serving the primary use,
however, piping and instel .tion within the accessory portions shall
be in accordance with UBC Standard 38-1.
Amend Uniform Building Code Standards by adoption of Standards 38-2 and
38-3 (Reformatted and revised NFPA 130 and NFPA 13R),
Rancho Cucamonga Fire DIstrict
Installation Standards for Quick Response Residential Fire
Sprinkler Systems
Per Rancho Cucamonga City Ordinance ??, all residential fire sprinkler
installations shall comply with NFPA 13D or NFPA 13R Standards (1989
Editions) with the following revisions:
[NFPA 13D (One- and Two-Family DwellinRs and Mobile Homes)
I. Revise 1-5.1.2, "Exception:" to read:
Exception: Listing may be waived for tanks, pumps and for hanger
as permitted by 3-4.1 only. These items however, must be approved
by the Fire District.
2. Revise 1-5.1.4 to read:
All systems shall be hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA
13 Standards. All systems shall be flow tested in accordance with
RC'FPD Standards.
(The intent of this change is to assure proper installation procedures were
employed and to give added assurance againtt future failure.)
Group R Division 3 Revise Chapter 3 to add a section 3-7 to
read:
All buildings exceeding 5000 square feet shall have installed with an
~pproved fire department connection (FDC) in accordance with RCFPD
3tandards.
Revise 3-1.1 to delete "Exception (c)"
(The intent o.f tlFa change ~ to assure that the butMlng occupant cannot pos-
sibly disable tat tystem witk out disabling tlomtsac water.)
Revise 3-6 to delete the Exception, and add:
The water flow alarm shall be located on an exterior wall of the
master bedroom, such other location, as approved by the Fire Chief.
(The intent o.f deleting the exception is to ttrsure that an audible evacuation
device is sounded upon spnnkler activation. The intent o.f the M. bedroom
flow alarm locaaon is to backup the smoke detector al an alarm for the bed-
room most likely to be occupied. It is not the intent ojr this section to require
alarms fop every martee bedroom in a single building. It is the intent of this
section to allow flexibility in the location requirement so that the alarm is
placed in the best location to alert occupants inside and neighbors. parserby.
etc. outside, of a water flow in care the occupants are not at heme)
Revise 4-6, "Exception 1,2,3,4,S", to read:
Exception: Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces, and
other concealed spaces that are not used or intended for living
purposes or storage.
(All other exceptions are deleted.)
Public Safety Con~ission Minutes -4- June 5, 1990
D2 Policy on Private ProPerty Parkin~ Enforcement.
Chaiz
and she
July meet
stated that since Commissioner Quintana had brought
unaJole =o attend tonight, he would like to continue
issue
item to the
Chairman Soyd
item.
,d if there were any members of the
present for this
There was no response
Chairman Boyd stated
feasibility and effectiveness .he
violations on public school
additional recon~nendation that eel
have the School District enforce
using City Police personnel.
was =duct a study on the legality,
enforcing permit parking
stated he would like to see an
~s the policy whereby the City could
parking on school grounds ins=sad of
ACTION: Item continued to
.ly 3, 1990 ;ing.
· CO~24UNICATIONB FROM TK2
El.
Cathy
Orange
She
i
:d stated it was very hard to access San rnardino Road from
because of the closeness of parked cars to intersection.
if there was a way to extend the no parki are· by the
Boyd asked the Engineering Department to investigate the situation.
F. ADV2~TISED PUBLIC
F1. REVIEW OF PROPOSED ~wSZDENTI~v- FIR~ SPRIN~r. ER ORDINANCE
Chairman Boyd presented the background information on this item at =he Council
and Commission level.
Staff repor~ presented by Chief Michael, Fire District, with assistance by Jerry.,
Grant, Building Official, Division Chief Alma=d, Fire District, and Craig Fox,
Assistant City Attorney.
Chairman Boyd asked about the proposed change on page 26, section 3-6, to delete
the exception that · local water flow alarm was not needed if you had · smoke
detector. He asked what was the purpose of the water flow alarm.
Division Chief Aimand, Fire District, stated as the ordinance was developed, a
committee was formed made up of people from the Building and Safety Division,
the Fire Safety Division, and the building industry, and stated one of the
members of that committee was present to address their questions.
Public Safety Couxuission Age=do ;5-
June 5, 1990
Tim Fejeran, Fire Prevention Specialist, stated the purpose of the water flow
alarm was to act as an evacuation device and a back-up ~o =he smoke detector
system, and to alert thQ neighbors if =he owners were not home.
Chairman Boyd asked why the alarm was to be located on the outside of the house,
and if since most homes have the master bedroom in the back, wouldn't that keep
the neighbors from hearing the alarm.
Tim Fejeran, Fire Proventis= Specialist, stated in NFPA 13D and 13R, under 3-6,
the appendix states the audible device shall be heard with all bedroom doors
closed and in all bedroses of the house, so it was placed on the outside master
bedroom wall to be heard by both inside and outside of the dwelling. He stated
most tracts are build back-to-back and would probably echo throughout the area.
He stated the alarm would be on the master bedroom or other approved areas, and
each tract would be looked at on a case-by-case basis when it c&me through =he
planning stages.
There followed a discussion on the location of the water flow alarm.
Chairman Boyd stated on page 29, ~here is a proposed deletion of section 4-6,
so would =hat mean sprinklers would be required in bathrooms. Also by deleting
section 2, would sprinklers be required in small closets.
Tim Fejeran, Fire Prevention Specialist, stated =hat is correct. He stated they
have found that most bathrooms have combustible plu~ing fixtures and
combuetiblel chemicals under the sinks where there have been incidents of fire
starting in those locations. He etated =hey were also recoemending that
sprinklers be installed in small closets because that is most often =he place
where small children hide when there is a fire.
Commissioner Yanksrich asked if there would just be one alarm required because
some residences are very large.
Tim Fejeran, Fire Prevention Specialist, stated it would depend on the structure,
and if it meets the requirements for audibility. He stated there may be
incidents where two alarms are required due to the size of the structure.
Chairman Boyd opened the meeting for public hearing. Addressing the Commission
were:
Don Jackson, William Lyon Company, stated they Just rece£ved their package'..
on this item and felt they did not have enough t/~ae to prepare, and asked
the Co~taiselon for a continuance of =his item.
Bill Rub, BIA, felt the City should have sent s copy of the report
builders in the City as a courtesy as he did not receive his copy until
today either. He stated he would also feel more comfortable discussing
this issue if it could be continued. He then presented information
regarding fire sprinklers from a study conducted by Johns Hopkins
University and how he felt the cost would impact the homebuyer.
Martin Garrick, Lincoln Properties, also asked =he Con~nission to continue
the matter due to the lack of time to review the staff report.
7/
Public Safety Commission Agenda -6- June 5, 1990
Joe Manieco, attorney for Lewis Homes, stated he had no complaints with
the contents of the staff report, but was concerned with the validity of
the proposed ordinance. He presented information regarding the State
Attorney General's opinion on municipalities adopting more stringent codes
Ehan the State Fire Marshal, and submitted it for inclusion with the
minutes.
There being no fur=her comment, the public hearing was closed.
Chairman Boyd instructed the Commission on the following points:
The Council has requested the Commission review the proposed
specifications. They specifically dad not request the Commission to give
them an opinion on whether they approved of the idea or not. Those
arguments that have been made to the Commission are made for the purposes
of inserting them into the record. The Commission's Jurisdiction is to
decide the issues based on the evidence as it is heard and the direction
given by the Council. That direction is to review the ordinances, and to
make whatever changes or modifications or other recou~nendations as the
Commission feels is appropriate. The public hearing will be adjourned,
and if there is further testimony as to changes or modifications, it will
be considered at that time.
ACTION: The public hearing was continued to June 12, 1990 meeting, 7=00 p,m.
in the Council Chambers at 10500 Civic Center Drive, to allow those present more
time to review the information.
Chairman Boyd called a recess at 8z05 p.m, The meeting reconvened at 8=12 p.m.
with all members of the Commission present (Quintate absent).
G2. Consideration of OD~i ,,(I~T% ~ssina Safety Personnel O~her Than erossine
Guards. ~T~ Be C~ntin".,'i
ACTION: Item ,-~tinu~ =o June 12 1990.
7>
Public Safety Commission Minutes -3- June 12, 1990
Roe Zeibarth stated that is a real problem and did not know if they would
able to satisfy everyone's needs.
Chairm
differs
vehicles.
asked what if the public safety aspects are different the
of vehicles, such as boats, camper shells and moving
Rot Ze] h felt the Commission needed to consider wl
feel, a boat is properly blocked and stable
a child, Commission should consider the beat
as the recrea' 1 vehicle owner's.
200 citizens
~t a hazard for
r's needs as well
Chairman Boyd asked
stated it was against the
attached, so wouldn't a
shells as a safer'
to leave ferric
.hell pose the
to children. He
3red outside with doors
of hazard.
Ron Zeibarth stated
_was the same issue as a re:
from the truck, it should be
properly secured. They
rights.
are not
!rarer.
ht so he did not feel it
ated if a shell was unsecured
.lity of the owner to see it is
but also felt they had certain
There being no further comments, the
hearing was closed.
Chairman Boyd asked Engineering sea: :h the sight line visibility for
vehicles parked in the front yard I where can back out onto the street,
and what the recommended to ensu he vehicles are placed in a
safe manner so as to not block sidewalks, fi :cole, etc.
Commissioner Glass stated h
is considered safe for stc
~ld like information
vehicles on.
iat percentage of grade
Commissioner Yankovich
the tongue of a boat
~edhewould like information on
how best to store camper shells.
o properly secure
Commissioner Qu
subcategories
! felt it would be useful to defin specific
he potential hazards that are specific for sac
ACTION=
on ordin
meet~
~o come back with the above information, and present
from other cities on the same subject, at the Augul~
1990
irman Boyd called a recess at 8z02 p.m. The Commission reconvened at 8=15
p.m with all members of the Commission present.
C2.
SPRIN~T.ER ORDINANCE.
Chairman Boyd re-opened the continued public hearing from June 5,
Addressing the Commission was=
CONTINUATION OF ADVERTISED PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED RESIDENTIAr. FIRE
1990.
Public Safety Commission Minutes -4- June 12, 1990
Bill Rub from the BIA, 9227 Haven Avenue, who thanked the Commission for
the opportunity to come back on behalf of the BIA. He stated he was
concerned with the maintenance requirements as listed on page 45. He felt
most residents would not follow the directions because they were too
involved. He also referred to an article that appeared in the Daily
Bulletin on June 8, 1990 regarding planning fee shortfalls, and felt
several builders would not build in the City if this was passed. He also
referred to the north Etiwanda area which is already paying into a
Communities Facility District for fire protection, which is expensive and
adding the cost of residential fire sprinklers would be very expensive for
them.
There being no further comments, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner ~modt felt the system was for fire prevention and would help
homeowners during response time by the Fire Department. Me also felt if a person
could afford a $300,000.00 home, they would want to do something to help protect
that home.
Commissioner Curetale stated the arguments presented only address cost. He asked
if t~e BIA has ever considered if it can save lives.
BAil Rub, BIA, stated that several years ago before he was with the BIA,
he worked on a system to provide smoke detectors to save lives.
Commissioner Curetale felt that smoke detectors would work for adults who can
flee, but what about small children.
Sill Ruh, BIA, stated he felt that has been looked at.
Chairman Boyd stated he would like the Commission to consider the exceptions to
the ordinance as outlined on page 41. He stated the proposal made in the staff
report on page 69 reco~e~endl that these exceptions be deleted and substitute with
"sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawlspaces, and other concealed spaces
that are not used or intended for living purposes".
Commissioner West was satisfied with the answers provided by the Fire District
at the previous meeting.
Commissioner Yankovich stated his only concern was with the ex~cerior alarm on
the master bedroom.
ChairmanBoyd did not feel that sprinklers were needed in small closets and small
bathrooms with non-fll~laable fixtures and would like to see Exception No. 2 left
in, and possibly leave in Exception No. i also.
Commissioner Amodt concurred with Chairman Boyd.
Commissioner Glass arrived at 7:20 p.m.
Public Safety Commission Minutes -5- June 12, 1990
Chairman Soyd then referred to Section 3-6 on page 38, which the Fire District
was recommending be deleted and replaced with "in most building configurations,
the water flow alarm shall be located on an exterior wall of the master bedroom".
Commissioner west felt that might work on small dwellings, but was not sure how
it would work on a large house.
Commissioner Curatalo felt maybe they could require more than one alarm if square
footage was large.
Chief Michael, Fire District, stated you could install as many alarms as was felt
necessary. Me stated the master bedroom would be most effective because it was
where adults would be at night when people were sleeping and could assist with
evacuation. Me stated they would review the models of new tracts to see how best
to equip the homes with alarms.
Commissioner Curstale felt they should keep the requirement and add in something
that over a certain square footage would have more than one alarm.
Tim Fejeran, Fire Prevention Specialist, felt the exterior alarm would be for
the parents to help in evacuating. He stated it would be hard to determine a
particular square footage requirement for more than one alarm because the
configuration of houses various so much. The specifications state the alarmmust
be audible at night throughout the entire structure with all appliances
operating, so he felt it would be best to decide at the time the models are built
how many alarms would be required.
Chairman Boyd suggested that on page 69, where it revises Section 3-6, to delete
the exception and add wording that says "water flow alarm(s) shall be located
on an exterior wall in such a location that it is audible throughout the house
as approved by the Fire Chief."
The Commission concurred.
Chairman Boyd then referred to page 61, Section 2-6, and stated there appeared
to be a consensus to leave in exceptions 1 and 2, delete exceptions 3 and 4 and
put in their place the exception noted on page 70, "Sprinklers may be omitted
from attics, crawl spaces, and other concealed spaces that are not used or
intended for living purposes or storage", and to keep in exception 5 on page 42.
MOTION: Move~ by Amodt, seconded by west to direct the City Attorney to develop
an ordinance implementing the requirements of 13D and 13R as amended by the~
Commission, and to send that ordinance to the City Council for adoption. Motion
carried unanimously, 6-0-1 (Quittans absent).
MOTION: Moved by West, seconded by Curstale that the Commission reco6~nend to
the City Council to adopt the findings of fact as shown on pages 76 through 80.
Motion carried unanimously, 6-0-1 (Quintana absent).
13D-L
Cop?niece: t989 NFPA. All Rights Reserved
NFP,, 13D
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes
1989 Edition
This edition of NFPA t3D. Standard foe the Installation o/'Sprtnkler Systems tn One.
and Two. Family Dwellings and Mobtie Homes. was prepared by the Technical Committee
on Automatic Spn nklen. released by the Correlatinl Committee on Water Extinluishinl
Systems. and acted on by the National Fire Protection Association. Inc. at its Fall MNtin$
held November 14-17. 1988 in Nashville. Tennessee. It was issued by the Standards
Council on January. 13. 1989. with an effective date of Februaz7 6, 1989: and supersedes
all previous editions.
The 1989 edition of this standard has been approved by the American National
Standards Institute.
Changes other than editorial ar~ indicated by a vertical rule in the margin of the Pales
on which they appear. These lines are mclucted as an a~d to the user m tdentifvinI changes
from the previous edition.
Oriltn and Der, iopmaat of NFPA 13D
Recognizing the need to reduce the annual life loss from fire in residential occupancies
(a~x~ut 50 percent of total loss of life by hre). the Committee on Automatic Sprinklen
appointed a subcommittee in May 1973 to prepare a Standard on the Installation of
Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes. The Subcorn-
mtttee wu composed of membcn of the Committee on Automatic Sprinklen and other
technically competent experts. The standard was subtrotted and adopted at the Annual
Meetinl in Chicalo. [L on May 12-16, 1975.
The ! 950 edition was a complete rewrite of the 1975 edition includinl Sl units where
appropriate The 1980 edition incoq~orated the results of the read~ntial sprinkler test
program adn~nisternl by the National Fire ProtK'tion Association. and funded by a
research Irant from the United States Fire Administration. Factory Mutual Reseah:h
Corporation, and the Los Articles City Fire Department conducted the dwellinl tests.
Factory Mutual ~h Corporation. McNeary Insuranc~ Consuitinl Services and the
Charlotte, North Carolina Fire Deparxment conducted the mobfie home texts.
After gainin$ practical experience with the 1980 edition. modifications to the standard,
includinl removal of destin parameters for dry-pipe systems. were made in the 1984
edition.
The 1959 edition provides for the recognition of antifreeze systems. an update on the
fire losses in one- and two-family dwetlinp. and often new $uidance for positionm$ of
residential spnnklen on sloped and beamed ceilings. RKluirements have also been
provUded for the installation of residential spnnklen in hilh-temperature areas.
Roger L .Illmat Factor7 M~tuli Researct% Co~.
{Alternate to w E. wdcox)
~e I. ~ Dow Chemical Co.
Tomm E. E~ la~ustn~ R~sk Insarch
, ~hema:e to ~ w Lmdet)
De,~d D E,~ Center For Fi~
RUIMII P. Fieram& ~ati. F~ Sprinkler Agn.
4Alternate co w
~ E. ~L Unde~nten ~ton, tat
rAlte~te to L. ].
[dM L ~1~ Un~ntm ~tonn of C~-
{Altoate to g. J. Wn~t)
C~ V. ~ Xe~x Co~.
(.~lte~ate co D. M.
(Ai~am to g. J.
(Al~am m J. ~ Kic~)
Alternates
%fuRurn M. Mmiw~lL Maxwell x, Leeman Architects
,,tten~te to J. G. O'N~il)
F~ J. Mll Eatm~ ~
(AIII~ to E. J.
J~l G. N~ S. ~ Fire ~.
¢Alteml~ to E. C.
~ W. O'i k~lmer En~nunnI Co~.
~Alte~te m C. w.
Jm / ~e VtkmI Co~.
(Alte~te to C.
(Altm~ to W. ~ld Hilton)
Ji ~. ~i Ag~mlttc S~nkler Co.
(Alt~m ~ L ~mm~n)
(~t ~ T. G.
wllb ~ ~ Blf Jm t ~am Inc.
Noavmlal
Edwin IL kdmkL Hupea Auoc.
w|imm L Kid. Kofd Auoc
Rap. Commmm on $de~y to Life
kn7 M. Lae, Wormmid Fire Sysmms
SubcommlttN on bideadd
Jean G. O.'~em. CAmRwtq
GetlG~.~,'g · Ajmc~m tnc
[deeel IL ludalek, ~l~es Amoc.
Layunl t CarolCeiL Raliable Aummauc Slmakle
Co. Inc.
Jamm IL DeutMI, NaIL AaI. of HoB, ItUklm
IUdm¢ I. ~11m,, I$O Commemal I~k brvNnm
la/llJaekm~A/lmamlnmranmCo.
HsMI. Clml Era& ~ Mum/Remag~ Corp.
Geeelm t. ~ Uadmmml/.alx~amnes i~.
Dorado Lamdmmdt..~tand Fire Eqmpment Corpo-
J. IL ~ r~ Raem~ Cmmcd of Cm
llmW b. lall. Amk ~f Fire C'ateb
J. Tam Stalin, US Fire .4dmxmsutuon
WIIkm L Tram. CmmWl Fire Primton Systems
Co. lag,
Willam '!'mature. rdmm Group
WIIMiI A, WolIL RDtir JeUM~ nnd AnOC. Inc.
tame. ckeVet m tM mewabenkq~ mmy VIe occurrNL
NOTE: Mm!~s~lql o~ a Commsm shaft Me m and of tu~r mnmmll m ,,~l),~ ~'nt of the
Auactatio,, or a~r dOcum~ de~ntofet 1~. rje Commstt, e o,, wlm:~ rise mint sm'va.
GE~.ER ~L f,,.r,)p..~ .~T~ON 13D- 5
NFPA 13D
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
One- and Two-Family Dwellings
and Mobile Homes
1989 Edition
NOTICE: -~n asterisk ~') follow~n$ the number or letter designat-
mga paragraph md~cates explanatory material on that paragraph tn
Appendix A,
Informanon on referenced publications can be found tn Chapter
,~ and ~.ppendtx B.
Preface
[t is intended that this standard provide a method for
those ~ndiv~duais washing to install a spnnkler system for
addmonal life salary and property protection. [t is not the
purpose of this standard to require the installation of an
automatic spnnkler system. This standard assumes that one
or more smoke detectors wall be installed m accordance
with NFPA 74. Standard for the Installalton. .~[amtenance.
and f.,~e or'Household Fire H~rnlng Equipment
Chapter ! General Information
I-I' Scope. This standard deals with the design and in-
stallation of automane spnnkler systems for protection
[agamst the fire hazards in one- and two-family dwelling
and mobile homes.
1-2' hrpeze. The purpose of this standard is to provide a
spnnkler system that wail aid in the detection and control of
residential tires and thus provide improved protection
against injury. life toss. and property damage. A spnnkler
system mstalled in accordance with this standard is expect-
ed to prevent flashover (total involvement) in the room of
fire ort~n. when spnnklered. and to improve the chance for
occupants to escape or be eva~tated.
Guidelines are established for the dettgn and installation
of spnnkler system for one- and two-family dwellings and
mobile homes. Nothinl in this standard is intended to
restrict new technololies or alternate arrangemenu provtd-
ing the level of safety prescribed by the standard as not
lowered.
I-3' Definitions.
ApF'oved. Acceptable to the "authority having jurisdic-
tion."
NOTE: The National Fire Protection Association does not
approve. inspect or certa~ any mslallat|ons. procedures.
equnpment, or materials nor does tt approve or evaluate
testml tal~oratones, In determinml the acceptability of
mstallatmns or procedures, edmpment or materials, the
authont,~ ha~,m8 junsdiesmn may base acceptance on corn-
pliance with NFPA or other appropriate standards. In The
absence of such standards. said authority ma~, require
dence of proper mstallauon. procedure or'use. 'The authont~
havml }un~hctton may. also refer to the hstmp or la~etlng
practices of an ofga!~tzatlon Coficerned w~th product e,, alua-
lions which is in a positlo~ to determine comphance
appropriate standards for the current production of Itsted
Authority Having Jurisdiction. The "authority- having
jurisdiction*' ~s the organization, o~ce or |nch~dual re-
sponsible for "approval" equipment. an mstatlatton or a
procedure.
NOTE: The phrase "authority hayrag Junschctton" as used
in NFPA documents m a broad manner since Jurisdictions
and "appmvar' alencles vary. as do their responsabdmes.
Where public safety ts primary. the "authority having ~uns-
dectan" may be a federal. state. local or ~aher regnonal
department or tndwtdUal SUCh as a fire ch,ef. ~re marshal.
chief of a ire prevention bureau. lalx~r department. ,ealth
department. I~midinl ol~cial. electrical mspector. or others
havinl seatutor7 authority. For insurance purposes. an insur-
ance insIx. clan department. rataI bureau. or other msur-
ance company representative may be the "authority hayrag
junsdic~aofi." !n many cffc~mstances the propen)' ~.ner or
has destlnated agent assumes the role of the "nuthorny
havinl jurisdiction"; at government installations. the corn-
mandinl ol~cet or dq~artmental ol~ciai may be the "author-
it.,,' harmI jurisdiction."
Check Valve. A valve which allows flow in one direction
only.
Control Valve.' A valve employed to control tshut) a
supply of water to a spnnkler system.
Deslp Ditchnile. Rate of water discharged by an auto-
mattc spnnkler expressed tn Eallons per mmute.
Dry Syuem. A system employing automatic spnnklers
attached to a pipmI system contiaraI air under atmos-
pheric or hiper pressures. Loss of pressure From the open-
inI of a spnnkler or detection of a fire condition causes the
release of water into the piping system and out the openeel
spnnkler.
Dwelling. Any building which contains not more than
one or two "dwellinI units" intended to be used. rented.
leased. let or hired out to be occupied. or which are
occupied for habitation purposes.
DwoiUal Unit. One or more rooms arranged,for the use
of one or more individuals living together as un a single
housekeeplnI unit. normally harmI cooking, li~, tng. sam-
tary. and sleeplnl facilities.
Labeled. Equipment or materials to which has been
attached a label. symbol or other identt~tng mark of an
organization acceptable to the "authority having junsdnc-
tton" and concerned with product evaluauon, that ma~n-
rains periodic inspection of production of labeled ~ugp-
merit or materials and by whose labehn$ the rnanufa~turcr
indicates compliance with appropriate standards or penor-
mance in a specified manner.
Listed. Equipment or materials included en a list pu~-
lished by an orgamzatton acceptaisle to the
w~'rER SLjPPL~r S~STEM COMPID~.E'~TS
Chapter 2 ~iiter Supply
Z-I General Provisions. Every automatic spnnkler system
shall have at least one automauc water supply. When stored
water ~s used as the sole source of supply. the rntmmum
quanext}, sr~all equa! the water tiemaid rate times [O min-
utes. ~See 4./31
2-2' X~nter Supply Sources. The followsag water supply
sources are acceptable:
(a) A connection to a reliable water works s.~stem.
(b) An elevated tank.
(c) .A pressure tank installed in accordance with NFPA
13. Standard tbr the Installalton o. tc Sprtnkler Systems. and
NFPA 22. Standard/or 14,~ter ran~ /br Private Fire Protec-
tion.
(dl A stored water source with an automatically operated
pump.
2-3' Mulflperpose Ptpinl SDtem. A piping system serv-
ing both spnnkler and domestic needs shall be acceptable
(a)' In common water supply connections serving more
than one dwelling unit. 5 gpm (19 L/ram) is added to the
spnnkler system demand to determine the size of common
p|pmg and the size of the total water supply requirements.
(b) Smoke detectors are provided in accordance with
NFPA 7~. Standard/by the Installation..~4a~ntenance. and
Use o/' Household Fire ~4;~rntng Equipment.
Icl All piping m the system conforms to the piping
specifications of this standard.
Id) Pertained by the local plumbing or health authority.
2-,1 Mobile Home Water Supply. A water supply for a
spnnklered dwelling manufactured off-site shall not be less
than that specified on the manufacturer's nameplate. [See
4-4 3/k~ Exceptton.]
Chapmr 3 Sy~em Components
3-1.3 Additional drains shall be installed for each
portion oft dr.',' system which ts subject to freezing ten.
atures.
3-2 Pr~sure Gales.
3-2.1 A pressure gage shall be installed to mdicate atr
pressure on dry s.',stems and on water supply pressure tanks.
3-3 PipinI.
3-3.1 P~pe or tube used m spnnkier s.~stems shall be of the
materials m Table 3-3. t or in accordance wuth 3-3.2 through
3-3.5. The chemical properties. physical properties. anct
dimensions of the materials listed in Table 3-3. l shall be at
least equsvalent to the standards cited tn the table and
designed to withstand a working pressure of not less than
t75 psi ~12.1 bars).
T~ble 3-3.1
Speczficauon for Welded and
Seamless Steel Pilae
wmul~t-Stee: .~ige
SIx'ct~cattons for Electnc-Resastance
Welded Steel Pipe
Copper Tube f Drawn. Seamless~
Specification for Seamleu Copper Tube
Specification for Scalalea
Copper water Tube
SIx'c~ficatlon for General Requirements
for Wrougt Seamtea Copper and
Copper-Alloy Tube
Brax~nl Filler Mval (Class:ficanon
BCuP-3 or BCuP-4)
SOec:~catton for Solder Metal
9~-5 (Tin-Antimony-Grade 95TA)
Standam
ANSI 836. tOM
ASTM A135
ASTM 875
-XSTM BF
~,STM 825 t
~,wS A5 8
ASTM 832
3-3.2 Other types of pipe or tube may be used. but only
those investelated and listed for this service by a testing and
inspection alency. taboratory..
3-1 Valv~ and D~alm$.
3-1.1 Each system shall have a sinlie control valve ar-
ranged to shut off both the domestic and spnnkler systems.
and a separate shutoil' valve foe the domestic system only.
E.~cepnon .Vo. !: The spnnkltr system ptpsng may have a
separate control valve where supervised by one
~ng methods:
/aJ Central station, proprietary. or remote station alarm
servzce.
rb; Local alarm service that Mil cause the soutlding o/'an
audible stgnat at a constantly attertded point. or
{c} Locking the valves open.
E. rceptton .Vo. 2: .4 separate shuto~'valve ts not required
the domesnc water supply tn multipurpose piping systems.
3-1.2 Each spnnkler system shall have a 1~ in. I ! 3 ram1 or
larger dram and test connection with valve on the system
side of the control valve.
3-3.3 Whenever the word pipe is used in this standard. it
shall be undentood to also mean tube.
3-3.4 Schedule iO steel pipe may be joined with mechani-
cal groove couplings approved for service wt,th grooves
rolled on the pipe by an approved groove rolling machine.
3-3.5 Fittings used in spnnkler systems shall be of the
matehats listed in Table 3-3.5 or in accordance with 3-3. ?.
The chemical properties, physical properties. and dtmen-
sions of the materials listed in Table 3-3.5 shall be at least
equivalent to the standards cited in the table. Fitungs used
in spnnkler systems shall be designed to withstand the
workinl pressures involved, but not less than 17 5 psi ~ t 2. t
bars} cold water pressure.
3-3,i Joints for the connection of copper tube sh ·
brazed.
Exception: Soldered /oints /9N-5 solder metal~ mar ~.
./be wet-pipe copper tube systems.
S'YSTEM DESIGN
13D-~
4-1.4 Sprinkle Coverage.
4-1.4.1 Residential spnnklers shall be spaced so that the
maximum area protected by a single spnnkler does not
exceed [ 4=1, sq ft ( 13.4 m:l.
water solutions of pure gJycenne
percent Fadel or propylene glycol shall not be permated.
Suitable g~ycenne-water and propylene glycol-v. ater rn~-
tures are shown m Table 4.3.3.3. I.
4-1.4.2 The maximum distance between spnnklers shall
not exceed 12 ft 13.~ m) on or between pspehnes and the
maximum d~stance to a ~,.al[ or partmort shall not exceed
6 t't ~L ~ m~ The mlntmum d~stance between spnnkters
~,lthm a compartment shall be ~ ft (".4 rn).
4-1.5 The mm~mum operating pressure of any spnnkler
shall be In accordance w~th the hstmg reformation of the
spnnkier and provide the mmtmum t]ow rates specified in
4-1.6 Application rates. design areas. areas of coverage.
and minimum design pressures other than those specified m
4-1.1.4-1.2. 4-1.4. and 4-1.5 may be used weth special
spnnklers which have been listed for such specific residen-
tial installation conditions.
4-2 Position of Sprinklers.
4-2.1 Pendent and upright spnnkiers shall be positioned
so that the deflecton are within t to 4 m./25.4 to 102 mml
from the carllag.
E. rceptton' Special residential sprmklers shall be re.Trailed
in accordance with the hsttng hrnttalton$.
4-2.2 Sidewall sprinklers shall be positioned so that the
deflectors are within 4 to 6 m. (102 to 152 ram) from the
ceiling.
E. rceptton.' Special residential sprmklers shaft be installed
m accordance with the listing hintteflon3.
4-2.3' Spnnklers shall be positioned so that the response
time and discharge are not unduly affected by obstructions
such as ceiling slope. beams. or light fixtures.
4-3 System Types.
4-3.1 Wet-fiR Systems. A wet-pipe system shall be used
when all piping ts installed tn areas not subject to freezml.
4-3.2 D~-fiR Systems. Whete system piping is located
in unheated areas subject to fteez~nl. a dry-papa or anti-
freeze system shall be used.
E.rceptton.' Listed standard dry-pendent or dry sidewall
sprmklers may be e.,ctended into unheated areas not mtended
/Or hvtng purposes.
4-3.3 Anfifteem Sy~lem~.
4-3.3. i Delimittoe. An antifreeze system is one employing
automatic sprinklers attached to a Pspml system containinl
an anti freeze solution and connected to a water supply. The
antffreeze solution. followed by water. discharles Immedi-
ately from spnnklen opened by a rite.
4-3.3.2' Where Used. The use ofantifreeze solutions shall
be in conformsty with any state or local health regulations.
4-3.3.3 Antifreeze Solution.
4-3.3.3.1 When spnnkler systems are supplied by public
water connections the use of antifreeze solutions other than
Table 4-3.3.3.1 Antifreeze Solutions
to be Used if Public Water is Connected to Sl~rinkler~
Solutioe
Material (by ~,~leme)
Gl.vcenne 50% Water
C.P. or U.S.P. Grade' 40% Water
3(3% water
Hydrometer Scale t.0OO to
Propylene Glycol ,"0% Water
60% Water
50% Water
Sirerifle Fretzing
Gnviry at Point
60'F (15.6'C) 'F 'C
t.133 - ~5 -26t
l./51 -22 -:,oo
1.165 -.~0
1027 - ~) - E: ~
1.034 - 6 -: '. !
1.041 -26 -_'.
_.~
40~ Water 1.045 - 60
Hydrometer Scale 1.000 to 1.200 (Subdivisions 0.002)
'C.P. --Chemmally Pure.
U.SP.--Umted States Pharmacopoea
4-3.3-3.2 If public water is not connected to spnnklers. the
commercially avidable materials indicated in Table
4-3.3.3.2 are suitable for use m antifreeze solutions.
4-3.3.3.3' An antifreeze solution shall be prepared w~th a
freezing point below the expected rnmtmum temperature
for the locality. The specific gravity of the prepared soluuon
shall be checi~ed by a hydrometer w~th suitable scale.
Table 4.3JJ.2 Aadlhe~ SeluGees
to lie Used if Pebik Wafer is ae4 Coeaeetnl to Sprinkle
Sfecilic Freezml
Solrobe Gravity at Point
.~aearld (~ volume) di~F (IS.6'C) *F *C
Glycenne If Ilyc~'tne ts used. see Table
Ditzhylel~ Glycoi 50~ water 1.078 - 13 - 350
15wowater t.081
4Os~ water 1.086 - 42
Hydromeler Scale t.000 to I. t20 i Sulxlivmons
Ethylene Glycol 61% Water 1.056 - I0 - 23
56ql Water 1.063 ~- ;0 - 2~.'
51~o Water 1.069 , - 30 -
~?,to Water IO73 -.&O -~,-),
Hydrometer ~ale 1.000 to 1. t20 lSubdtvusaons
Prop,/lene Glycal If propylene ilycol is ust~l. see Table
Calcium Chloride Lb CaClz per
80e4 "Ftak/" pi of Water
Fire Protection Grade 2.83 I. 183 0 - i '
Addcon'o~on tnhtbitOr 3.38 1212 - tO -23
of sodium btchmmate 3.89 1.237 - 20 - 2~
'/, oz Ixr pl water 4.37 t258 - 30 - 3-~
~.73 t.2,4 -~O
493 ~ 283 - 50 - ~;
from n%MaMsmm chloride aid otAer trapunties.
SYSTEM DESIGN
Tnbl, ~-t3~b) Pr,ssan Losm (psi/h) Coppit TubinI--Typss IC L & M:
Flow Ram - GPM
CalVe
Tubinl Typs
Size in. I0 12 14 16 18 20 IS 30 35 e
:, M 008 0.12 0.16 0.20 0.25 030 046 064 0.85 -
[- 0 10 0.14 0.18 0.23 0."9 035 0.53 0.75 1.00 -
K 0.13 0.18 0.24 0.30 0.38 046 0.69 0.97 128 -
I M 002 003 004 0.06 00? 008 0 13 0.18 0 24 0.30
L 003 004 005 0.06 008 O. tO 0.15 020 0.2," 0.35
K 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.09 0. t| 0.17 0.24 0.3| 0.40
t", M 0.01 0.0l 002 0.02 0.03 003 005 0.07 0.09 0. t l
L 0.0l 001 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.12
K 0.01 0.01 002 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.11 0.13
I': M - 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05
L - 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.0t 0.02 0.03 004 0.05
K - 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.06
2 M ..... 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01
L ...... 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01
K ..... 0.0t 0.0| 0.01 0.01
For S! Umts: I gaL - 3.:'85 L. l psi - 0.0~09 iaar:. tft - 0.3048 m.
45
038
043
0.50
015
016
0.17
006
007
0.07
0.02
0.02
002
!Y
o .~6
053
0t'
0tc~
020
0.08
008
009
002
002
002
Table 4-4.34c~ Eqmvdeet Lenfb of PIpe in Fm fee Seeel ud
EIINms Tees ','dyes
Fim,,I/vd,e FIN Flow Gkdm
Diume 4S N Lml TIm. Thrm ..y-
In. I:)elrmn Defees Radium ~ameh Rum Gale
~', I 2 t 4 I t 10 21 t 1
I I 3 2 5 2 I 12 28
l". 2 3 2 6 2 2 15 35 18
I~': 2 4 3 8 3 2 15 43 22
2 3 5 3 IO 3 2 24 ~7 28
BasKt on Crtn~ reciprocal Paper No. 410.
For SI Umu: I ~ - 0.~ m.
IThts as b~ u~n the fn~lon I~ t~ tM ~lq ~q :~: of t~ C
Factor armlaMe to th, pipan&)
Cock
Check
(k) The remaining pipinl shall be sized the same as the
pnpml to the farthest spnnkler unless smaller sizes are
justified by calculations,
Exception: For sprmMt, n,d d~dlinls manufactured o~stte.
the minimum prezsure ntt, dtvl to aUtffy tat system design
criteria on the system stdt of tM merit shall be specified on a
data plate by the manufacturer. {$t,~ ,~tctton 2-J.)
TaM,
Pumm~ tom (Imi)
Metm' Flaw (llm)
(Inchel) II 23 2J 31 39 S2
~a 9 14 18 26 * '
~/. 4 8 9 13 · ·
I 2 3 3 4 6 t0
1,,: " I 2 2 4 7
2 ...... I 2 3
NOTE: Hilllet pregu~ tc:u~ splc~md by tbl mnng/IC~'Urlr N M ~
m pIKe of t~m s~:~ :n ~ ~. ~ ~ Im ~ M ~
wh~ su~q ~ is pmvt~ ~ ~ ~e
· .~M~ m~mum ~ ~ of ~y avm~ ~
· '~ thU I ~.
For Sl L'niu: I ~ e 3.715 ~mm: I in. m 2~.4 mt
4-4.4 To size plpinl for system with an elevated tank.
pump, or pumptank combination. determine the pressure
at the water supply outlet and proceed through steps (c l.
(I}, (h), {i). Cj), and (k} of 4-4.3.
4-5 !qpill Coefillrmios. Pipinl con~l~arations may be
looped, InddecL stmght run, or combinations thereof.
44 Lacethin dSlwiMdeg. Spnalders shall be installed tn
all area.
Exception .~. i: $pnnkltr~ may be omitted "From battv-
roonu not exct~inl ~ sq fi (~. l n~} wu~ non~omOu~ttbte
plumbtnt ftttun,~.
Exceptran .Vo. 2: SImnMm may be omitted From ymalt
clotits whtrt tM It~tt dimchiton tots not exceed J /~ /0 9 m,
an~ the atta dots not eccted 24 sq fi t2.2 m;} and the ~alh
and cetijJ~$ aJ'~ surfaced w~ttl noncombRstzble or ltmttea
comb~anbil mattflail ~t defined by NFP.4 220. Standart , ,n
7'yptz of Buildinl Cotutrucnon.
Exceptdon No. J: SpnnMm may be omitted From
open attached porchft. carpoett. and struttar structur
Exception No. 4: Sprtnkllrs may be omitted ,'tom ,:::.-,.
apr~no~x ~ 13D-~ 3
Bedrooffl
- 50' ?,*V ~ l
T
71" 54"
CH Chest
For SI Umts: Im.- 254 ram.
Film~ A-i-I(i)
C
8
N
L
Cha,r
N,gnt Stana
LamO
LswngrOom
34'/1" E 33'/."
?o'*~
~,.
Widow Arll
/
Mo0ne Home
- Oaor \
\
IC~os~) ~
i
147" 4~i'~
90" II, 3
'.N,naOw iClo$1~|
524"
:05',"
Mile Home Bedroom.
72"
22%" *-
S - Soil C - Chaer
E - End Telme C/V - Curtaenl
t - LamO O ' Slonnluer
For SI UmLt Im. - 2~.4 ram.
Fillel A-I-i(e) LJHll I~
A-i-3 System control valves should be of the mdicatmg
type. such as plu8 ~ahes. ball valves. butterfly ~alves. or
0S. & y. gate valves.
A-I-4 The responstbihty ~or property mamtammg a spnn-
kier s} stem es the obligat:on or' the owner or manager who
should understand the sDnnkter s.,,stem operatan. A mint-
mum mot:hi? maantenance program should mciude the
t'ollow:ng:
ta~ Visuall.,, enspect all spnnkiers to ensure agaanst oID-
struttrot of spray.
Ib~ Inspect all valves to assure that they are open.
fc) Test all waterflow devices.
(dl The alarm system. tf installed. should be tested.
NOTE: when it apOears likely that the test wdl result in a
resOonse of the fire depa~ment. nott~catton to the fire
department should ~ made prior to the test.
(e) Pumps. where employed. should be operated. beee
.VFP4 20. Standard ~br the Installation o/Centrt/uga/Fire
Pumps. )
if) The pressure of air used with d~ systems should be
checked.
(g} Water level in tanks should be checked.
/h~ Care should be taken to see that spnnklers are not
painted either at the ume of installation or dunng subse-
quent redecoration. When painting spnnkler pnpmg or
painting m areas next to spnnklers, the spnnklers may be
protected by covenng with a bag which should be removed
|mmediately after painting has been ~mshed.
i il For further reformation see NFPA 13A, Recom~en~-
ed Practice/~r the Inspection. Testing and .~,la~ntenance o/
Sprtnkier Systems.
A-l-5.1.1 At least three spare spnnklers of each type.
temperature ratarig, and orifice sue used tn the system
should be kept on the premises. When fused spnnklers are
replaced by the owner. fire department, or others, care
should be taken to assure that the replacement spnnkler has
the same operating characteristics,
A-1-5,1.4 Testing of a system can be accomplished by
filling the system with water and checking visually for
teakale at each Joint or couplinl.
Fire department conneatons at~ not required for systems
covered by this standard. but may be installed at the
dtscret|on of the owner. In them caMS hydrostatic tests m
accordance with NIrPA 13. Standard for the In~tatlanon of
Sprinkler Systenu. ate required.
Dry systems should also be te~ted by placinl the system
under mr pressure. Any lea that results m a drop m system
pressure greater than 2 pat (0.14 bat) in 24 houn should be
corrected. Check for leaks usaI soapy water brushed on
each jomt or couplinl. Leaks will be shown by the presence
of bubbles. This test should be made prior to concealing of
pspml.
A-2-2 Connection for fire protection to city mains is often
subject to local relulauon concarnal metennl and back-
flow preventton requtrements. Preferred and acceptable
water supply arrangements are shown in Filures A-Z-Zfa).
(bL and it). When a meter must be used between the cny
13D
,~.---C,t¥ Water Ml,n
I a C, t~ Gate
valve 'to Oor"'e.;r c
/ //// I/ / // / / / /~ / /// I / I / [ /[/ /I $v$re,.,~
Ora,n a.a Test ~Oe~ecTor
Connect,on ~: P'essure G~e
T TO AutOtoilet
SOr,nk~er
System
Filwe A-2-Z(a) Pr~eruble .~'?nnlemenf.
jl/--CitV Water MIen
---¢.e--_.C,tv Gate '.: C.tv Ga~e
Valve Va,ve
IIII!I/~!ii111111111111I~/IIIIII
Springier
COntrol Valve
Reference 3-11
ExcelDt,on No ~ I
P'essure G~e
~ Water I:,ow ~ va, ~e
Ori.n and Test OltKtOr
COnnectiOn ~:~Pressure Gage
T TO Automitre To Damest c
SOr,nK~er ~ Svste"n
Film, A-Z-Z(b)
AeeqRable Ar~nlement.
jr.-C~tv WIrer Me,n
Fillet .%.-Z-](¢I AcglIIIMI ~rvealemem.
K~tc~ee
~ ' 203-e~m~
Figure .~-4.. I.Z(a) Sprinkler DesaSh Jtroas for Typical Residential
performance. The tesung was lira,ted to one pendent-type
residential sprinkler model. two ceiling slopes (0 and 14
degrees). and two beam configurations on the single enclo-
sure size. In order to judge the effectiveness of spnnklers m
controH:ng fires. two base line tests. m which the cathug was
smooth and horizontal. were conducted wgh the pendent
spr:nklers :natalled and with a total water supply of 26 gpm
(g8 L/rain) as required by NFPA 13D. The results of the
base hue tests were compared with tests in which the ceiling
,~as beamed and/or sloped and two pendent spnnklers were
matiliad with the same water supply. Under the limited
conditions tested. the companion indicates that sloped
and/or beamed ceilings represent a serious challenge to the
fire protection afforded by flit retpon~e residential spnn-
klers. However. further tests with beamed ceilings indicated
that fire control equivalent to that obtained tn the base line
tests may be obtained if one spnnkler is centered tn each
ha? forTned by the beams and a total water supply of 36 Spa
(136 Lima) is available. Fire control equivalent to that
obtamed in the baseline tests wli obtained for the smooth
sloped ca:ling tests when three sprinklers were installed
w,th a total water supply of 34 ]pro 1200 L/may. In a single
smolderrag-started fire test. the fire was suppresset.'
A-4-3.3.2 Antifreeze solutions may be used for maintain-
ing automauc sprinkler protection m small unheated areas.
Effects of Cathedral and Beamed CeilinI Construcuon on
Residential Spnnkler Perromance. FMRC J.[. M3N5 R.-XI3L by
Bill Jr. R.G.. Kung.. '-C. Brown. W R.; and H,II. E,. prepared fo~'
U .S. Fire ~.dm,mstratnon e Feb. 1988).
13D-I-
Table .-t-4-ZJ Maximum Distam
from Slmaklor Deflector to Beltore
of CeilinI Obslnaerima
Distaneo from Sprinkler
to Side d Ceil|nI Ol~tr~erion
Less than 6 m.
6 in. to Jess than i Ft
t ft to less than ,' ft
: ft to less than: ft 6 in.
: ft 6 m. to less thin 3 ft
3 ft to less than 3 ft 6
3 ft 6 m. to less than ,1
4 ft to less than J, let 6 m.
,t ft 6 m. to less thin 5 ft
5 ft to less than 5 ft 6 an.
5 ft 6 m. to less than 6 ft
For 51 Umts: Im. -, Z].4 am: I ft ,, 0 JOa8 m.
Maximum Distance
from Seeinkier Deflector
to hitore of
Ceilinl OIBlruction
Not permitted
l tn.
: ~n.
4, In
~ln.
:4 in.
Antifreeze solutions are recommended only t~r s>stems not
exceeding 40 gallons I 151 L).
Because of the cost of reRlling the system or replemshm~
small leaks. it is advisable to use small dry ~al~es ~,here
more than 40 gallons ( I ~ l L) are to be supplied.
Propylene glycol or other suitable material ma? be used as
a substitute for priming water. to prevent evaporauon of the
primal fluid. and thus reduce ~ce form auon wtthln the
system.
A-4-3.3.3J Beyond certain limits. increased proportion of
antifreeze doe3 not lower the freezing pomt of sol¼t|on.
Fi~,ure ..l-.l-].JJ.J.) Glycenne. diethylene ilycoL eth.~lene
glycol. and propylene glycol should never be used ~nhout
mixinI with water in proper proportions. because these
materials tend to thicken near 32'F
A.4-3J.4 To avoid leakale. the materials and workman-
ship should be excellent. the threads clean and sharp. and.
the joints ttl~t. Use only metal-faced valves.
A-.4-3.3.5 Tests should be made by drawing a sample of the
solution from valve B two or three times dunrig the r'reezmg
season. especially if it has been necessary to dram
budding spnnkler system for repairs. changes. etc ~, small
hydrometer should be used so that a small sample ,,. ,il
Appendix B Refeffnced Publications
B-i The followins documents or portions thereof are
referenced ,,.ithln th:s standard for tntbrmattonal pu~oses
onl~ and thus are not consadered part of the requirements of
this document. The edition mallcared for each reference ts
the current edmon as of the date of the NFPA. issuance of
this document.
B-I. i NFPA Publications. Nattonal Fire Protectton ~sso-
clarion. Batter.~march Park. Qumcy. MA 02:69.
t,,bex 13F'
NFP~ 13-1989. Standard for the/nstallatton Ot Sprt~
NFPA 13A-1987. Recommended ~h'acttce lbr the Inspet-
non. Festmg and .~lazntenance o.t'Sprtnkler ~vstems
NFPA 13R-1989. Standard/be the listdilation ot Sprin-
kler Systems tn Residential OcCupancies up to Four Stories in
He t g,h t
NFP~. "0-1987. Standard/br the Installation ot Centrtlh-
g, al Fire Pumps
NFP.~ "J,... 1989. Standard tbr the Installalton. .tiatnte-
,;. 'k'e. and I.~e o.t Household FIre H~'rnmg Equipment.
Index
989 %a~tonal Fire Protection .&_~_Locsatmon. all nlfitl tee, ervet.
The copyright in this tndex i1 s~pafale and diNrafter ffoffl the co~nlht in the d~umene which sl an~m ~e Ilc~nI ~vmsaoes m f~h f~ ~ ~ument a~
not apphc~le to thins index ~ms mndez may nm N ~p~N m whole or ,n pm) a~ m~N wttM~ iN el) ~ttzen ~mm~ d ~ Nat~at Fire
Protection ~lltlOfi. [~C
Alafi~L walerfiow. 3-6. -~-3-6 Imm--,im--I~_
)~nttton I-3
Anmil'm
Solutions. , J-.14. Tables &3.4. I. &]..4 2.
A--m-).4 )
S?stems 4-3 3
Dennm.on
.C-
Compoaenu. smm ..................... Chap..1
Coe~mioat to main~ ........ A-2-L Fig. A-2-~. (a thr~ cl
-D-
DI~IIII Mid I~ --am,--. · .................... I-). -~-I
De~,,ces and m ................. 14 I.
System ............................ Chap. 4.
Cntena ............................ &t. A~l
~i~ ~ ........................ ~ DtKh~.
~muon ...................................... ~-3
~,~ .......................... ~l.t
~muon ..............................
~nmoa ......................... ~-~
)~mtmon ...............................
-F-
3-3 5, 3-3.?. Table 3-3 )
-J-
see Deslln and mstallat.jn
Jotau 3-36
-M-
-p.
IqlNml .............. 3-3
Conelet·m ................. ~,~
Ma~als and amte~m .............. Table 3.3 t
S~zmI of ...................... ~. T~I~ ~.~ la th~ ak ~-~
Su~m ........................... 34
~3~.
M~tm~ ........................ ~-3. ~-~-~
Su~y
~muon .................
System
~~ ..-.
13R-~
Cop.vnlht ~ 1989 NFPA. All Rights Reserved
NFPA 13R
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
Residential Occupancies up to Four Stories in Height
1989 Edifioa
This edition of NIrPA 13R. Standard .foe fAe Installation of Sprinkler S?ttms tn
Residential Occupancies up to Four Stones ~n Height, was prepa.~ by the Technical
Committee on Automatic Spnnklen, released by the Correlatinl Committee on Water
Extxnguishing Systems, and acted on by the National Fire Protection Association, Inc. at
its Fail Meeting held November 14-17, 1988 in Nashville, Tennessee. It was issued by the
Standards Council on January 13, 1989, with an effective date of Februaf7 6, 1989.
The 1989 edition of this standard has been approved by the American National
Standards Institute.
Ottlia and Do~iolmmat of NFPA 13R
NFPA ! 3R represents a milestone in the development of sprinkler installation design
standards. This first edition encompasses a combined effort of the fire ~rotectzon
community to develop a standard for the protection of low-riM, residential faCIlities.
This standard is intended to provide a hilher degree of life safety and property
protection to the inhabitants of low-ris~, multifamily dwellinls. Promullated as a
document which provides for increased levels of protection to buildinl occttpants, the
document has also considered the economic aspects of a sprinklered facility. as compared
to an unsprmklered facility.
As the number of states and cities that implement sprinkler ordinances continues to
grow, it is felt that systems for certain residential occupancies can be emciently and
effectively installed in accordance with this standard.
This document will provide requirements on system desgin which ranle from water
supplies to hardware selection to positioninl and location of automatic sprinklers.
Rqer L Mlart Fgczory ~,,t-ai Research Corp.
~lte~ate to ~' E.
~ R. ~m. Dow Chem,cml Co
~ ~itemate to J L.
· om~ E, Enfant lnd~stn~ Risk [ns~re~
, ~t~e~ate ~o K. ~ Lmderl
Davud D. Evtn~ Center ~or Fire
, ~temate to ~ D ~atton)
Rus~ll P. Fimia~ ~atl. F~re S~nnkier
, Alterate to w
~ E, ~L Unde~ten ~ton~ I~.
Ed~ L ~ Unde~nten ~tona of
Can/
[AR~ate to ~. J.
C~ Y. ~ Xem~ Co~.
(ARemale to D M.
~ltemate to R. J.
Alternate to J. ~ Richa~n)
COMMITTEE PERSO'~%EL
.Mtef'aa~es
Metyam M. ',laxwelL Maxwell & LeDretort .~.rdlttects
· *,itemate to J. G O'%eHl)
F~KiI J. ~ik~k E~tman K~ Co.
~ltemlte to E J. ~hi~luerl
J~ G. ~NL S. PtMtenl Fire ~t.
~ ~ltemate To E. C. B~on)
~id ~. O'i. ~htmer En~n,nnI Co~.
~ ~itemate to C ~' ~hlmer)
Jm ~bW. The Vnkml
e~ltemate to C hmettl
H~ S~, [nIL ~. o~ Fi~ Ch:e(s
f~itemate ~o W David Hilton)
JKk ~, All~ &aromatic Spnnkier Co
(Ahemate to L. ZLmmemann;
Jm ~ ~e S~ton Co~.
(.Altems~ to T. G.
~ F, Vk H~ Spnnkl~.
ARamaic to W TapIra
Willa A, i hit ~Nn i .&~satH Inc.
13
Eehqnl IL lede~L Hu~es &ssoc
WiUlem E. Keed. Kolfet Assoc.
Rat CommitIN on Safety to L,fe
Bey/H. Lm. WormBid Fire Systems
Subcommittee on Residential
Jddm G. ONeit CAmrmdn
Gale-Babcock it AsM~ates Inc.
Edwed IL hdeleL H~lbes AS~.
La/ed L CameNil. Reliable Aummmm
Co.
Jm I. Deeeel, N~I. Ann. of Home hddm
lideel t. HNIle. i$O CommataN R:sk Sarv~es
lalel Jedeee. AIm lEname Co.
C, emle E- Lemetd~ UMerwmm Laboratories
Deemhi ~ Mar/rand Fire Eqmpmeot Corpo-
raira
J. ILi Fire !149afcb Councd of Canada
Hen? SIme, lad AMn. of Fire C'mefs
J. Tern Said). US Fi~ Admmi!tratzon
WlUbm L Teal& Gnnndl Fire Protectson Systems
Co. Inc.
william Timram. rdmpef Gmu~
willam A. i P~if Jensa~ and ASS~X. Inc.
mtmben~tp ai
may ~e
NOTE: Membefilllp ol a Comafirm sll/I not m aad of illelf conltstute an emlonemem of the
AsMt~tIo~ or any doeum~tt devetopN I~ tM Commanee on whw. h me meattar serves.
NFPA 13R
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
Residential Occupancies up to Four Stories
in Height
1989 Editioa
NOTICE: .Aft utensk ['1 followtel the nurn~r or leuer ~estgnat-
ml a ptr~aph mdicat~ expianato~ maten~ on that p~pb m
Ap~ndtx A.
[nfomluon on ~femc~ pu~i~tio~ ~ ~ found tn ~p~r
3 ~d Ap~n~x B.
It is intended that this standard provide a method for
those individuals wtshin8 to mstalla 5pnnkler system for
life safety. and prope~. protection. It is not the purpose of ·
this standard to require the installation of an automatic
sprinkler system. This startcried assumes that one or more
smoke detectors will be installed in accordance wuh NFPA
7-1. Standard For the Installation..~la~ntenance. and C~e of
Household Fi~e PHzrning Equipment.
Chapter I Calmoral Information
i-i* Scope, This standard deals with the destin and in-
stallation of automatic spnnkler systems for protection
against fire huards in residential occupancies up tO four
stones tn height.
1-2" Perpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide
dessin and installation requirements for a spnnkler system
to aid m the detectson and control of fires in residential
occupancies and thus provi4e improved protection alainst
injury., life loss, and property damair A spnnkler system
designed and installed in accordance ,with this standard is
expected to prevent flashover (total involvement) in the
room of fire origin, when sprinklered, and to improve the
chance for occupants to escape or be evacuated.
'~othing in this standard is intended to restnc~ new
:echnotogies or alternate arranlemenu, providin$ that the
level of safety prlscnbed by the standard is not lowered.
1-3 I:kfiaitkms,
Aplstovsd, A___%~,~table to the "authority having junsdic-
tion."
NOTE: The National Fire P~ection Aseciation dims nm
approve. inspect or cent~ any ll$llJlatlOtt$, prOCedUreS,
equipment, or matenile not don it apIN~ve or evalume
testisS laboratories. in determmtas the acceptabdity of
instlLlattonl or pfoc~ equtpnl~t or materials, the
authonty havml junsdictloa may ~ acceptance oa com-
pliance wnh NIrPA or other appropriate standards in the
absence of such standards, u,d autlmnty may. require evl-
dence of proper mstafiatson. precedum or use. The authority
having jurisdiction rely ~ ntfer to the listsnil or laDelmI
GENERAL
13R-5
practices ~i' an Orl~lllF, atlOh concet-~ed with product e~alua-
irons which xs tne politiou to cleter~l~e compliance with
/ppropnaze standards for the curt, cut produczxon of t,sted
aerns.
Authority Havtnl Juttsdletiol. The "authority havmg
jurisdiction" is the organization. oilice or individual re-
sponsible for "approvtng" equipment, an installanon or a
procedure.
NOTE: The phrase "authon~ having juris4iction" as used
~n NF'PA documentl in a broad manner smce JurlSdlC110tl$
and "approvaF' ale~ctes vary. ts do their responsibilities.
Where public safety ts primary.. the "authority harm! juns-
dictton" may be a fedetti. state. tocai or ~ther regional
department or individual such as a ~re chief. 5re marshal.
chief of a fire preycanon bureau. labor depanment. health
department, buildin$ olciaL electrical inspector. or others
havml statutory. auffiority. For insurance purposes. an tnsur-
ance mspection department, ratm$ bureau. or other msut-
ance company repl~sentative may be the "authority laavml
junsdicuon." in many czK'umstances ~ property ~wner or
his destlnated alent assumes the role of the "authority
havm$ jurisdiction"; at government installations. the corn-
mandinS ol~cef or departmental ol~ial may be the "author-
ity havun$ Jurisdiction."
Chs~k Valwo. A valve that allows flow in one direction
onJy.
Control Valvo, An indicatin$ valve employed to control
(shut) a supply of water to a spnnider system.
Deslp Ols~ba~e. Rate of water discharged by an auto-
matlc spnnkler. expressed in gallons per manure.
Dr/Systom, A system empioyin$ automatic spnnklers
that are attached to a pipinS system containing air under
atmospheric or higher pressures. Loss of pressure from the
openin$ of a spnnkler or deteczion of a fire condition causes
tl~e release of water into the piping system and out the
opened spnnkler.
Dwolllal Unit, One or more room arranged for the use
of one or more individuals livin$ together as in a sinlie
housekeeping unit, normally having cooking, living, sam-
tap/, and sleepinS facilities,
Labeled. Equipment or materials to which has been
attached a label, symbol or other ideatlfyinl mark of an
organizItion acceptable to the "authority having jurisdic-
tion" and concerned with product evaluation. that mann-
rains periodic inspection of production of labeled equip-
ment or materials and by whose labelinS the manufacturer
indicates compliance with appropriate standards or perfor-
mance in a specified manner.
Listsd, Equipment or materials included in a list pub-
lished by an orllntzation acceptable to the "authority
having jurisdiction" and concerned with product evagun-
tion, that maintains periodic inspection of production of
listed equipment or materials and whose listinS states either
that the equipment of material meets appropriate standards
or has been tested and found suitable for use m a specified
manner.
NOTE: The means for identifyinl listed ~u,pment
vary for euch olllnlzltlofi coficerood Wll~ product e~aiua-
wORKING PLANS, DESIGN INSTALLATION. ACCEPTANCE TEST~, ANO MA|,NT~NANL'~
sizes less than 8 in. [203 ram}] shah not be Iotned by /~tttngs
used with pipe having cut grooves.
1-5.5 Fitting used in sprinkler systems shall be of the
materials listed in Table i-5.5 or tn accordance with 1-5.7.
The chemical properties. physical properties. and dimen-
sions of the materials listed m Table 1-5.5 shall be at least
equivalent to the standards c~ted tn the table. Fining used
m sprinkler systems shall be desilned to withstand the
work,hi pressures ~nvolved. but not hess than 175 pst( t2.1
bars) cold water pressure.
Matmats m Dimsnsioss Seamdul
Cut Iron
Caet Iron Threaded Fitting,
Class 125 and 250 ...................... ~,NSI BI6.4
Cut Iron Pipe Flanle
and FlanlKI
Fittmls ............................. ANSI BI6.
Mailcable Iron
Malleable Iron Threaded Fimnls,
Clan tSO and 300 ..................... ANSi Bi6.3
Steel
Faczory-made Threaded Fitttnls
Clam l~O and 300 ..................... ANSi B16.9 .
Bunweldinl Ends for Pipe. Valve~
Flanles. and Finmls ................... ANSI B16.25
Spot. for Pipinl Fininls of Winolin
Cat~on Stei and Alloy St~t
For Moderate and Elevated
Temperatures ........................ ASTM A234
Pipe Flanlfi and F!anlmt Fininls,
Steel Nicket Alloy and Ot~r SIm~iai Alloff .. ANSI
Forged Steel Fining. Scrim% Welded '
and Threaded ......................... ANSI BI6.11
Copper
WroUlht Copper and Coppit' Alloy
Solder-Joint Prenut~ Fittinll ............. ANSI BI6.22
Cat Copper Alloy Solder-Joint
Pressure Fitting ...................... ANSi B!6.
I-5.6 Joints for the connection of copper tube shall be
brazed.
~'xceptton: Soldered joints rgJ. J soide. metal} may be used
for wet-pipe coppeP tube .ty$tem.v.
1-5.? Othff typn of tttinlS may be uMd, but only thoM
listed for this Merit,,
14 Syria ~
14.1 Wet-PiN Systom~ A w~t-pi!~ sys~m shall be used
when all piping is installed in m not subjm to ft~'zinl.
I-&2 Provision shall be m to pintin pipinl from
freezml in unheated areas by uM of one of the followlnl
acceptable methods:
(a) Antsfreeze system.
(b) Dry-pipe system.
13R--
Except,~n: Li.rted standard arty-pendent. dry uprtg~tt. o
sidewall sprinklers may be exte~ed Into unheated arer*
Intended for living purposes.
14.2.1 Antifreeze solutions shall be installed in accor-
dance with 5-5.3 of NFPA t 3, Standard for the ln~tatlat;on
o7' Sprtnkler Sys/tnty.
Chaptar 2 Worklnl Plans, Desilt Installation,
Accoptancw Tet~ and Malntomamem
2-! Woddal Plans and Aeeq~taco Tats.
2-1.1 WeekiN Piems,
2-1.1.1 WorkjoE plans shall be submined for approval to
the authority havtnl jurisdiction before an.v equipment is
installed or remodeled. Deviations from approved plans
will require permtmon of tile auttionty having j unsdiction.
2-1.1.2 WorkinI plans shall be drawn to an indicated scale.
on sheets of uniform size, with a plan of each floor. made so
that they can be euily duplicated, and shall show the
followinl data:
(a) Name of ommer and occupant
(b) Location. includinl street address.
(c) Point of compass.
(d) Ceiling construelion.
(e) Furl heilht ctou moo.
(f) Location of life wails.
(l) t.ocation of partitions.
(b) Occupancy of each area or room.
(i) Location and size of concealed spaces. attics. closets.
and bathrooms.
(j) Any small enclosures in which no spnnklen are to be
installed.
(k) Size of city main in street, pp;uure and whether
dead-end or circulatinl and. if dead-end. direczion and
distNIgl tO ~ cimdatinI tuna, city rn~n test resttits
includinl d~vatmn of t~t hydrant.
(I) Maim, manufaaut~, t~, heat-response element.
tem!~ratue ratinl, and nominal orifice size of spnnkler.
(m) Ternira'aim ratinl and hxation of hilia-temperature
spnnkint
(n) Numbs' of sptmkln~ on each riser, p*~ floor.
(o) Kind and location of alarm bells. ~,
(p) Typ, of pip, and littinls.
(q) Typ, of protection for nonmealUe pip,.
(r) Nominal pip, stz~ with lenltl~ shown to scale.
NOTE: Wlmm t~ IRan~ lions prlva~. it wdl be neces-
(S) La~tion and siz, of rim nipples.
(t) Typ~ of fittinls and joints and location of all welds and
bends.
(u) Types and locations of hartlets, sleeves. braces
methods of m:unnl spnnkl~"s, wher~ applicable.
~'ORK/~'G PL~.~"S OE¢IG'', F",~'F~,LL:~FT,3~. xCCEPT:~'-CE TEST~ ~'.D
2-1.3.1.3 To avoid propert)' damage. provision shall be
made for the disposal of water ,ssutn6 from test outlets.
2-1.3.2' ~ll s~sterns shall be tested for leakage at 50 pst
134 barsl abo~e maxirnurn s?.stem design pressure.
g~e~lio~ II 'hen d ,'Ire depart,?ent (o~nec'llon Is provtded.
htar,~stdtz~ preSStare :e~t5 s,tail be pro,taed en dtcOrdaerce
~ztn %FPq /d 5zanaard 'or e~e [nstailat,~n ot 5prtnkier
-9-2 Design and Installation.
2-2.1 Devices and Materials.
2-2.1.1' Only new sprinklers shall be employed in the
installalma of spnnkler s.,.stems.
13R--~
2-2.1.2 Only listcd or approved clevtces and materials as
~ndicated in this standard shall be used m sprinkler ~. stems.
2-2.1.3 5pnnkler s~,stems shall be designed t'or a maxt-
mum ~,.orkmg pressure of 175 ps~ (12.1 barsL
Exception- Hid, her desz~,n pressures may be used '.~ize?
s', s:em components are rated tbr pressures htgl~er ~tan 1
.' 12. l bar~l '
2-3 ~'ater Supply.
2-3.1 General Pro,isions. E~er.~ automatic spnnkler s~s-
tern shall have at least one automatic v. ater supply. '~'h'en
stored ~ater ts t~sed as the sole source of supply. the
mmtmum quarttin,' shall equal the water dernanci rate'ttmes
30 minutes. ~See
Filure 2-1.2.1 (Coaltaued) Comnaee's Material and Tat Certificate fee .,.ia,~lt~t~d Plpinl.
~kORKI",G PL ~",S. OESIG% I'~ST.~LL ~TIO%
that have been painted. except those with factor% applied
coatings. shah be replaced ~,.ith new Insted sprlnkiers.
2-4.5.9.2' Ornamental fimshes shall not be applied to
spnnkJers b~ anyone other than the spnnkler manut'acturer.
and onl~ sprinklers hsted v. lth such nnishes shall be used.
2-4.6 ~.larms. Local ~.aterrlov. alarms shall be pro~mded
on a,I sonnKier s~s~ems and shall donnected to the
buildlRg ire ~larm i~stem. ~nen pro~._ta
2-5 S)s~em Design.
2-5. i Design Criteria--Inside Dwelling Call.
2-5.1.1 ~ign Di~hm~e. The s)stem shall pro~mde a
discharge of not tess than [8 gpm m68 L mmm to any single
operanag spnnkler and not less than 13 gpm ~49 ~mm) per
spnnkler to the number of design spnnklers. but not less
than the hsnng of the sprmkler~s).
E~'c'eptzon. Design ~tschar~e /or ~prtnk/er~ installed in ac-
coraanc'e ~ l/j2 Erceptwn .Vo 2 of 2-4 ~ l ~ha// be in accor-
aanc'e .~ tl~ >prmK/er /z)'Hn~ c'rlt8rla.
2-5.1.2' Number of Design Sprinklen.
2-5.1.2. I The number of design sprinklers shall include all
sprmklers v. ithln a compartment to a maximum of four
spnnklers.
2-5.1.2.2 The definition of compartment for use in
2-5.1.2. I to determine the number of design spnnklers is a
space that is completely enclosed by wails and a ceiling. The
compartment enclosure mav have openrags to an adjoining
space if the openings have ~ minimum lintel depth of 8 in.
(203 am) from the ceiling.
2-5. 1.3 IAiter Demand. The water demand for the system
shall be determined by mult~pl.,,mg the design dlschai'ge of
2-5.1. t b.,, the number of design sprmklers of 2-5.1.2.
2-5.1.4 Sprinkler Coverqe.
2-5.1.4.1 Residential spnnklers shall be spaced so that the
maximum area protected by a smile spnnkler does not
exceed 144 sq ft I I 3.4 m:).
2-5.1.4.2 The maximum distance between sprinklers shall
not exceed 12 ft 13.7 m) and the maximum distance to a
~,all or partition shall not exceed 6 ft ( 1.8 m).
2-5. ! .4.3 The minimum distance between sprinklers with-
tn a compartment shall be 8 ft (2.4 m).
2-5. i .5 The minimum operating pressure of any spnnkler
shall be mn accordance with the listmS informaiion of the
sprinkler and shall provide the matmum flow rates spect-
tied m 2'-5. I. I.
2-5.1.6 -xppl,catton rates. design areas. areas of coverage.
and minimum design pressures other than those specified in
2-51.1.2-5.t.2. 2-5 14. and 2-~.1.~ may be used with
special spnnklers that have been hsted t~r such spe,.-ltic
resmdential installation conditions.
24. I.? Position of Residential Sprinklers.
2-5.1.~.1 Pendent and uprt~t spnnklers shall be posi-
honed so that the deflectors are wlthm I to 4 in. { 25.4 to 102
mml from the ceHms.
'~CC~PT~,~.CE TEST~ ~,~,0 %I.H".TE%-&~,CE ~ 131)
E. rcepnon: Special residential sprinklers ~nail ~'e .' n ~,'
tn accordance ~lth the itsltn.~ hraitatlons
2-5.1.,'.2 Sidev. all spnnkiers shall be posmoned so that
the deflectors are ~,lthm 4 to 6 in. ( 102 to 152 mm~ from the
coding.
E. vceptzon. Spec'ta/ restclenrtal sprrnk/ers shall be installed
:n ac'c,?rdance ,~ Ith the tlstl~l~ l'tmltatlO~$
2-5.1.".3' Spnnklers shall be posltioned so that the re-
sponse time and discharge are not unduD, affected bv
obstructions such as ceiling slope. beams. or 'light ~xtures~
2-5.2 Design Criteria--Outside Dwelling Unit. The de-
saga discharge. number of design sprinklers. water demand
of ~he s)stem. sprmkler coverage. and position of sprinklers
For areas to be sprmklered outside the d~ellmg unit shall
comply with specifications in NFP., 13. Siandara' ;Or tie
[nstallatton or Sprinkler .~t'steras.
Excepuon .%'o~/. I4'hen corapartmented into areas of SO0
sq./~ /46 ra;) or less bv 30-ratnute t~re-rated construction. and
the area is protected by standard i~r quick.response ~prin~lers
not exceeding 130 sq .I~ /12 ra;; per sprinkler. the ~'rstera
demand may be halted to the aurabet of sprinklers tn the
cotapartment area. but not less than a tota~ of four sprmklerL
Opentn~,s frora the compartments need not be protected
provided such opentng, s are provided with a lintel at least 8 in.
r20] ram} in depth and the total area o/'such openings does
not exceed 50 sq fi /4 6 rdj Jbr each compartraent. Dtschr
densit>' shall be appropriate ./Or the ha:ard classt~catw
determmed by .VFR4
Excep, on ),~. 2.' Lobbies. tn other than hotels and
foyers. c'orrtdors. and halls outside the d~eillng tlnit.
fiat. smooth cethngs and not e.,cceedtn~, lO ~t d 0 m/in
height. raav be protected with residential ~prt~kterL ~, ith a
raaximum systera demand of/bur ~prtnk[ers.
2-5.3 Pipe Sizinl. Piping shall be sized in accordance
with h~draulic calculation procedures to comply v. eth N FP-X
13. Standard/or the Installation o]' Sprinkler ~vsteras.
24 Loretam ~'SFemltlmr~ Spnnklers shall be installed in
all arm.
Exception .'*;o. 1: Sprtnklen may be oraltied trora hath-
rooms not e.v:ceedtng .~ sq /i 1.~, ]ra:] ~tth noncombustible
p/ztmbin~, .ttrture$.
Exception .Vo. 2: Sprmklers roar be omitted titira ~,nail
clothes clolets ~here tire least dimension does not e.~'ceea d tt
(0. 9 m} and tfie area does not exceed 24 sq /t ~ 2.2 ra:i and
~talls and cedmg are sur]aced with noncorabusttble or/tatt-
ed combustible materials as de)~ned by .'v'FP.4 220. Standard
on Fvpes of ~ttt/d~ng Constntctton
Exception No. ]: Sprmklers mat' be oraltied
attached.' porches. balconies. corrtdorL and ~'tairs
Exception N'o. 4: Sprinklers may be omitted t~'c,m ,utR,
pentl~ouse equipment rooms. crawl spaces. tl,,,~r,'~'eztzne ,?u, -
es. elevator vhafts. and other concealed s'pa~e~ that art' .....
used or mtended /~r hvmg purposes or ~toru~e
2-'7' Mninfemmnce. The owner is responsible for the .
dillon of a spnnkler system and shall keep one s~stem
normal operating condition.
' 989 ;_: '
~PPE%OiX ~
" go"
50' . I.
71"
T
Cha,r
Hll~ goarO
N,gn! S~8nCl
Lame
For SI Umts: I xn. - 2J 4 mm.
FilleeA-!-I(i)
L~vsngroOrn
3,',~" :~ t
E 33'A"
w i I 54"
· Cw,
~ C
~o' '-'t
VVindOw Arel
/
MOlDHe Home RedrOom
N
1 147" sum
. ~.~C~Ow ,C:oseal ~
v ~s 7~" .,
; '~5'~ '
· _
42" ~ g
-- f DOOr
!'Closed)
16..~,30"--~
CW Curtisrig
D Dresser
C Chair
For $| t,'ait. l: Im. - 25.4
FillRe A-l-I(b)
Mobile Home Bedroom.
72"
C - Chief
C~N - Curtains
0 - SOr~nKler
Livinl Room.
~PP~%DIX ~
Fipre A-Z-J.2(a)
Preferable Arranlemeet.
//~'C tv Ware,
~C,~v Gate
va,ve Va+ve
//llll/(lllllllllllll/ll/JIl/lll
~n~e~
*~uOOe, ~ea 'OOt~on Rifefence ~Water
C~K V~~ 24 11 ~xclotfon Merit
No. 1)
~ressure G~I Domestic
S~ut-Off
~ Wa~er ~,ow / Valve
Orasn 8nQ Test DecKtot
COnmeCT, On ~ P,eSSure
T ~ To Au:Omat~C Z TO Oomeshc
SOr,n~er Syst~
Schism. t~ee Z-4 / / E~cepno,.)
/-.-C~tvWIter Ma:n
..~I,....C, tV GIt/
Valve
I! II ! I !1111, II IIII! !111,
Witlr Flare Water
Oltt~tQt SOr;nkllr Meter
P.essure G~ Control Valve M n C I
n ana T~t P,fisure G~ Shut-off
m I Valve
COnnKt~On '~uD~I. ;~N
ChK~ Valve
'RuOiler ;iced CheCk Valves Ont,onll
Filan A-Z-3.Zic) &cceilfsMe .Arrmeleml with Vague
Sullel~ilk)l. (Sm, e 2.4 1 I Exceptann.)
Table ),-Z-3.3.1(a) Fixture Loml %'Blues
Pri,ate facilities 4withia imliviClui dwclliaI Baits}
Bathroom group wrath flush tank (sncludinl
taratory. ~,ater closet. and bathtub v, tth shower1
Bathroom group with flush val~e
Bathtub
DIshwasher
K~tchen sink
Laundry, tra.~s
Lavator-~
Shower stall
washmI machme
Water closet wnh gush valve
water closet w~th gush tank
hhlk Facilitie~
Bathtub
Dnnkxnl fountain
ICitchen sank
Lavato~
Service sink
Shower head
Unnal weth Im. flush valve
Unnal wnh % In. gus~ valve
Urinal with gush tank
Wash|hi machine 18
WasbinI machine I 16
Water closet with gush valve
Water clam with gush tank
Tellle A-Z-3J.l(b) Total Estimated Domestic Demana
Total Fixme Toad Demaad in Gallons Per %lira
Load Units Fee Systems with For Systems..,a
Ireera TIMe Pllilllilaltly Predomiaantl~
A-l-3J.l(a)l Rub Tub Flush
3 8Pm
5 10 t 5 Spa
10 15 25
ZO lO 35
35 :5 45
50 30 50
70 35 60
I00 45 '0
150 55 ~0
200 65 90
250 75
350 100 125
500 115 { 50
750 1':5 t 75
IOOO 200
1500 2,5
2000 325 325
3500 54:)0 500
colors as referenced in 3-11.6 of NFPA 13. Standard to, :>tc
Installation of Sprmkler Systems.
A-2-5.1.2 It is intended that the design area is to include
up tO four adjacent spnnklers producing the greatest
demand within the companmem.
A-2-5.1.7.3 Fire testing has indicated the need to ~.c',
m the area protected by residential ~pranklers at ~. .-.
4PPINDIX I
13R-!?
(h) Care should be taken to see that spnnklers are not
painted either at the time of instaJlatton or dunng subse-
quent redecoration. When painting spnnkler p:pmg or
painting tn areas next to spnnklers. the spnnklers may be
protected b.v covenng with a bag, which should be removed
:mmedtatet.v after pasntmg is 6rushed.
For Further ~nformatton ~e NFPA 13A, Recommended
P~ac:~ce ~br the [aspection. Testing and .~atntenance o.f
SprtnKl'er Systems.
Appendix B Referenced Publications
this document. The edition indicated for each reference ts
the current edition u of the date of the NFPA ~ssuance of
this document.
B-I.I NFPA hblktttoes. National Fire Protection Asso-
cxatton. Battedmarch Park, Qumcy, MA 02269.
N FP*, t 3 - | 989, Standard for the Installalton of Sprt nkter
Systems
NFP.~, 13A-1987. Recommended Practice for the [nspec-
Iron. T'esttng and Mazntenance of Sprinkler S.vstems
N FPA 213-1987. Standard for the Installation o.f Centrt. fu-
gal Fire Pumps.
B-I The following documents or portions thereof are
referenced within this standard for informational purposes
only and thus are not considered part of the requirements of
August 13, 1986
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
STAFF REPORT
L977
PLANNING COMVlI SS ION
BUILDING OFFICIAL
SUBJECT:
RESIDENTIkL FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
BACKGROUND
The Planning Co,,i~ission has several times requested a report
regarding the value of developing regulations for installation of
fire sprinkler systems in residential buildings. This report is
intended to respond to those requests.
kNALYSIS
Mandatory fire sprinkler installation on any broad-based
approach is quite rare in the United States. Those jurisdictions
that have applied it unilaterally to single-family developments
are even searear. From the data gathered there is only one
jurisdiction in the United States that has applied sprinkler
requirements to single family residential uses for any length of
time; that ordinance was adopted by the City of San Clamante,
California in 1979, before the advent of current residential
sprinkler standards.
The cities of Arroyo Grande, California and Seottsdale,
Arizona implemented ordinances late in 1985 and early this year,
respeetively. Seottsdale's ordinance only applies to newly
developing areas of the City. Arroyo Grande's ordinance was
placed on moratorium before it beeante effective and the
moratorium currently remains in effect with revision anticipated
in the near future. The City of Fontann recently introduced an
ordinaries to require sprinklers in all new buildings except
private garages, sheds, eta., under 200 sq. ft. in area, which
time of writing of this report was pending second reading. Their
ordinance is not clear as to retrofitling existing structures.
In addition to the cities above, there are a number of
jurisdictions that apply sprinkler requirements in new multiple
dwellings and quite a few that require sprinklers under certain
conditions, such as poor access, rugged terrain, inadequate water
supply or remoteness. (The Foothill Fire District has required
installation of sprinklers on a ease by ease basis where aeeess
is difficult.)
ITEM W
In most cases, the adoption of a broad residential sprinkler
ordinances has been accompanied by modification of infrastructure
requirements such as reduction in water main size, increased cul-
de-sac lengths, nattower streets, etc., to offset additional
costs of construction.
Host of the promotional information in eireutation atso
indicates potentiaI insurance savings to homeowners, however, we
have not been able to verify that such would apply in Rancho
Cuearnonga. In fact we have been advised that some insurance
companies add a penalty for potential water damage if sprinklers
are installed.
Most of the data available regarding residential fire-
sprinkler systems stems from tests conducted since 1978. Initial
tests indicated that conxnercial/industrial systems were slow in
operation and did not provide the wettint patterns needed for
residential installation. Subsequently, new spray heads were
developed and tested and in late 1980 a new standard for fire
sprinklers was adopted by the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA). This standard is known as "NFPA Standard
13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One-
and-Two Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes".
The Standard states clearly that its purpose was "intended
to provide a method for those individuals wishinZ to install a
sprinkler system for additional life safety and property
protection, It is not the purpose of this standard to require
the installation of an automatic sprinkler system" (emphasis
added). This statement is at least a strong inference ~ st the
standard was not intended to become a mandatory measure as is
currently advocated by many ot the proponents of residential fire
sprinklers. However in the past several years there has been
considerable effort expended by certain organizations, members of
the fire service, manufacturers and installation companies to
mandate widespread installation. Their efforts have been based
upon the nearly unehallengeable position that fire sprinklers
save lives and property and reduce fire protection needs, thereby
retarding the escalating costs of rnaintaininf tire protection
services.
On the other side of the argument, the California Building
Industry Association has developed a report, (currently being
updated), based on California statistical research data, that
seems to indicate that, by itself, installation of sprinklers in
residential uses is not the most cost-effective way of achieving
reductions in life loss. Another publication from the National
Bureau of Standards indicates residential sprinklers can be cost-
effective, liven some concessions from insurance interests and
Zovernment.
Most of those eorrrnuniLies adoptinS residential sprinkler
ordinances have made substantial "it-ads-off's" if exehanSe for
the sprinkler installation. [n order for such to be accomplished
in Raneho Cuesmonga, support and cooperation would be necessary
from the Foothill District. Their representative has indicated
to this oftice that, in their view, sufficient historical data
has not yet been accumulated or verified to warrant sil~nifieant
departure ~rom ~he standards currently rol~owed.
An interestih~ side issue that has surfaced sines our
information ~atherin~ beeart, is that the majority of buyers of
new homes are s~eptieal or untrustinS about havinS sprinkler
heads in their homes. In one Raneho Cueamon~a project, where
certain units were required to be sprinklered and the sprinklered
units subsequently offered to prospective buyers without
additional cost, approximately 60 percent ot the prospects
indicated an aversion to the sprinklers and preferred
unsprinklered units. Similar suspicions were experienced in
Arroyo Grande with adoption ot their ordinance.
Costs for installation of sprinklers run about St.00 to
$1.50 per square toot. AssuminS a cost ot $1.25 per foot, normal
down payment of 20%, 10% lendin¢ rate and a 30 year loan, a
sprinkler system for a 1500 sq. it. house would increase the
monthly payment by about $13.l? per month. Total costs over the
life of the purchase sontreat would be about $5,100 (exclusive ot
maintenance, repair costs or water darnslie penalties). This
amounts to about $170 per year. Anticipated maximam reduction in
tire insurance costs would be approximately $10 per year, or less
than 25% of the cost.
Costs to the eo,~a.unity for providinl tire protection could
conceivably be attested by sprinkler installations on a broad
scale, however, demands for fire suppression personnel and
equipment are eerierated to a lar~er deSfee by
eorrrnereial/industrial construction and by the potential for wind
driven fire storm, than by residential fires. So, althouSh the
overall number of responses to residential tires may reduce to
some deCree, substantial reduction in manpower seems unlikely,
simply by adoption of a residential sprinkler ordinance.
There is ltttle histories1 date to substantiate reduction of
life-loss in residential fires by sprinkler installation, simply ..
because, until very recently, sprinklered homes have been
virtually non-exixtent (approximately 2000 houses in the entire
U.S.) and therefore not aspable of comparison. Statistics quoted
reSetdinS lifeloss in sprinklered buildin6s are based tersely
upon non-residential buildings.
The most outstandin( life loss in all structures results
from smoke inhalation. Residential sprinkler systems do not
activate from smoke alone; heat is required. Additionally
residential systems complyinS with N.F.P.A. Standard 13D unlike
eorrmereial systems do not include eovera(e in small areas nor
concealed spaces of the structure, thereby increasing the
Potential for smoke development in those spaces, with miStslion
to occupied areas.
lnitiatin~ a residential fire sprinkler ordinance would
necessitate inspection, both at the time of installation and on a
recurring basis thereafter, if systems are to remain in working
order. There would also be considerable additional plan check
time required in the checking process· This would require added
personnel and equipment, either by the city or the Foothill Fire
District dependent upon the enforcement agency.
Sprinkler plan checks are currently performed through the city by
an outside consultant. Inspection of corr~ercial/industrial
sprinklers is provided by the Foothill Fire District.
SUMVlAP, Y
Because of the inadequacy and short history of available
facts and statistics refardin~ the subject, and the difficulty of
addressinS the virtually sacred life-safety issue, the advantaSes
of requirin~ residential sprinklers is as yet, impossible of
objective analization. A few tentative conclusions can, however,
be reached:
Construction costs would increase. Cost-effectiveness
over the life of the systems would depend heavily upon
concessessions by government in development standards
and/or the insurance industry.
Property loss from fire damage would probably
reduce· Whether this savings would be offset by water
damage penalties remains questionable, and would
probably vary by insurance company chosen.
Escalation of fire protection costs may be slowed, but
probably not in proportion to the added costs to
consumer.
There would likely be some aversion to acceptance by
buyers.
There would be costs associated with of administration
of a program, for plan check, initial installation
inspections and maintenance feehacks.
Life savings by sprinkler installations is, as yet,
debatable since there is insufficient history to
substantiate claims made.
We have gathered mounds of information, much of it
duplicative and speculative. The majority of it has been
prepared by companies or agencies with vested interests in
promoting residential sprinklers· We have attached several
articles that seem pertinent. T~e balance of the information is
available in the Building and Safety'Division for Cornnission
review if desired.
RECC~ATION
All things considered, the limited factual data available
indicates that installation of fire .~rinklers in residential
buildings is probably not cost effective except by substantial
relaxation in development standards. Further, any increase of
life safety that might be aehieved By their installation is
indeterminate due to a lack of historical data. It is
recorrrnended that no action be taken at this time; rather that
this matter be deferred until sufficient historical reeords have
accumulated to make a more definitive conclusion possible.
4
Should you consider
fire sprinklers?
They're easy to build into
ne',' construction. possible but
dif cult in an existing house
"~Ae're It the crest of a ~ave." claims
Ran Coleman. lira cheer for San Cla-
mante. California. in 1950. that ca)' be-
came the first In the nation to adopt a fire
sOrmkler ordinance for ne~, houses. Nov,.
more than 2.000 m the city are equipped
blth fire sDrmklers. and dozens of other
c,tles m the %A,'est and throughout the
countr) are follov, lng suit.
Wh~..? Residential fires cause more than
5.0450 deaths and $3 btlhon in damage
ever.`. .~ear. Even though smoke detectors
have helped reduce the number of fire
deaths b) 50 percent In the last decade.
detectors don't l~ut out flames. And some-
times firefighters can't reach burning
houses before major damage is done.
%Ahtle municipal fire protection costs
ha~e steadil) climbed. the costs of e~-
cleat. in-house fire prot. Ccuon systems
ha~e dropped to more affordable levels.
San Clamante and other cities have found
the.`. can Set b.~ beth fe,~er new' fire sta-
tions. hydrants. trucks. and firefilhters.
and possibl.x a~oid or reduce future prop-
Im~mdemt
spanklets go sn
San Cleatnet
house as
tt's framed.
.%'e~ res#dennal
st stems cost
about $100 per
hta~ mstalled
ere) tax increases For fire protection.
Another potenual benefit: reduced fire
insurance rates.
But be forewarned: you may have trouble
finding a professmortal in your area wtilinl
to retrofit your house with sprinklers.
Sprtnkler contractors are generally quali-
fied but many are reluctant to enter an
unkno,.'n market. Plumbers and other
tradesman are just now learning about the
materials and installation procedures that
meet nay, standards.
And note also: Sueset found no installer
or ~re-filhtinl professional who would
recommend it as a do*it-yourself job.
The West lemim flee ,,my im research
Ke) component in a modern residential
system is the new quick-response sprm-
kler head. The result of a decade of inten-
siva research, it is much more senstarve
than the so-called commerctal head.
in 1980. after seven years of testing b) the
US. Fire Administration and the Facton.'
Mutual Research Corporauon (FMRC).
the National Fire Protection Assocsat~on
(NFPA), an rodependent research group,
established an updated voluntar} stan-
dard (13D-1980) for the installation of
qu,ck-response sprinklers in one- and two*
ramil) d~'ellinls. Local and state agencies
Rtmidtmtial slwimAItt system branches t;'om
Cite' ~attr hat. t~rout~ "header" valves
and laulrs, to pt~ ntt,otA ;n attic.'
vertical leeirons lead to ltdt~'oll
I~attons under cathedral ctthng
.~ems: a ~,heck valve. drain valve. water Row
shut-off valve. p. si. (pounds per square
inch ) pressure pule. an electric water flow
switch that connects to an alarm bell. and
an antl-~ater-hammer device. Local
jurisdictions might omll some of these.
9.'hen ~ater begins Rot-tag through an)' of
the sprinkler heads. the alarm goes off. It
can be a saran. bell. or an electronic signal
that rings the nearest fre station directly.
Pi~f. Steel and copoar pipe are the most
common. the)'re strong. resist expand,n8 or
contractm8 in heat. and the fittings can
eas:l.~ ,,nhstand the pressures of a sprinkler
system But the,.*rc retauve[) expenstve.
hea~). and hard' to install in tllht attics or
other awkward spaces.
The NFPa~ lad standard allows other pipe.
such as ~exlble pollbut)lent plastic pipe.
onl.~ :F it has been approved by an
Independent agency testmg for the fire
protection market. At our press time, only
one manufacturer of polybutyiene pipe
(Tro}an Plast,;s: see list on page 126) had
been appro~ed b) FMRC; at leas~ three
others are waiting in line. Because It's light.
flexible. and easy to snake into tight spaces.
pol)butHene Is considered the easiest to
install. especially in retrofits. It can
withstand high attic temperatures and
freeze-thai cycles without loss of strength.
However. polybut)lene Is best joined ~lth a
heat Fusion devlci. which literally welds
plasttc fitIra s to the I:}lix. Thoulh it makes
For Foolproof joints. the device operates at
500° or hotter and must be used with
extreme caution in attics and other tllht
spaces. Moreover. not many tradesman have
the tool. You can v, nte or call the
poiybutylene distrtbutors we list For
professionals tn your area v, lth heat Fusion
day ices.
Another plastic pipe. CPVC (chiorinated
pol)vln)l chlortde. primarily for hot-v~ater
plumbing) is sometimes used. though it isn't
appro~ed b.% the lid standard. !t's light.
costs less than steel or copper. and is
usu.t)l.~ ~olned v,:th solvents and cements. A
CP'v'C s~'stem c',n be targel~ preassembled
before g~lng up. but its stiffness can also
make longer lengths difficult to handle in
ttght spaces.
rk~e rypes of L'L-li~ted sprinklers iRelade
two pendeal and one sidewall tlead.
Escutcheo:v plaits sit flai aimrise surface
$ltei,klers. Two companies (Grinnell Fire
Protection Systems and Central Sprinkler
Corporation) now make nearly a dozen
types of residential sprznkler heads listed
with UL as we go to press. another dozen
by other companies are awaiting itstint
with UL or other testing fac:httes.
pendent or side~kall heads cover at least
~uare Feet (about a 13 :-Foot cu'cle); some
rover up to 324 square feet i about a 20-foot
circle). dependinI on water supply and
.pressure Each releases an umbrella-shal:ed
spray that should reach hi h on the room*s
walls. Some heads mount lush with the
caitiffI or wall. others protrude up to 2
inches. as sho~k n at left.
To limtt ~dater damale. only' two sprinklers
within the system should discharge at any
one time. and usually onl) the one closest to
the flames. Based on standard home ~,ater
pressure of 35 pounds or more per square
inch. one head will discharge at least 18
gallons per minute.
A ne~4 breed of sprinklers. possibly
available next )ear. bill have a mechanism
to shut off ~ater flow after temperatures
drop. As of now. the system must be turned
off manually at the shut-off valve. '
!m am ~, ~,lemcy ...
Is water damale from a sprinkler system
a problem? Relatively speaking. it*s not
nearly as harmful as the spray from a
fireman*s I:':-inch hose. which can quick-
ly cause more damage than the fire ttself.
But there will be some damale. You can
reduce it by actmI quickly.
First. if you hear a smoke detector or
spnnkler alarm go off. let eve~one out o1'
the house and call the fire department. if
it*s safe to do so. quickly investslate to see
if the fire has been put out by the
sprinklers. If so, close the flow shut-off
valve and wait for help to arrive.
if there are still flames or heavy smoke.
vacate the house and leave the system
runninl. Don*t Io back into the house
until fireman say it*s safe. Charred floor-
boards or smoidertnl furniture could in-
jure you. There may also be live electric
circuits indoors--deadly with water
around. When fireman think it's safe. turn
off both the house's electricity and the
sprinkler system. then check the damale.
One note: standard homeowner's fire in-
surance should cover an.,, damale due to
sprinklers but check wtth your insurance
company before you install the system.
Wlmt aimel r,:,Mht'tl?
In existinl houses. installers have to crawl
tbroulh att,cs. workinl around already-
in-ptace insularran and ducts. In two-story
houses, they may have to remove sections
of flour. After markinl the location of
each sprinkler and preasMmblinl the sys-
tem as much as pouible, they will lay out
p~pes in the attic, then drill holes in ceil-
inls. Once all heads are in place and pipn
are connected, the whole system will be
tested for leakale, usually with an air
compressor.
Before you hire an installer to put in a
system. make sure he has put them in
before. Ask to see other sprmkler Jobs hc*s
done and talk with those homeowners.
Before you buy. ask your local fire inspec-
tor for advice on ordinances and codes
He may come out to ~our house to see
there are any major problems to antici-
pate. Houses with cathedral cathags. well-
water systems. or hard-to-reach second-
story. areas. for example. may require
special designs.
Also. check with your insurance company
for possible reductions in your fire insur-
ance rates. Recently. the Insurance Ser-
vice Organization. a national insurance
advlsor~ group, recommended a I.~ per-
cent rnductton in premiums lot houses
with sprinkler systems. Some companies
offer up to 30 percent reductions ~f bur-
glar and smoke detectors are included.
The California division of the Centr;tl
Sprinkler Corporation and Grmnctl offer
a retrofit service. Central ~,ill find a Quail-
Red person in your area to give .~ou an
estimate; tf the) can't find someone. the)
will send one of their own people. You
milht also arrange to send them )our
house plans so the)' can preassemble and
install a plastic pipe system. Grmnell will
send their own representatives to live esti-
mates and install retrofit systems,
Both Central and Grinnell have readily
assembled kits of all the necessary com-
ponents for ne~' constructions.
To learn more about sprinkler systems
and standards, write or call any of the
followinl:
AtiltitS, National Fire Protectton
Association. Battenmarch Park. Qumc).
Mass. 02269; (617~ 770-3000. NFPa, has
developed and continually updates the 13D
standard for aulomatlc residential
spnnklers; write for a $6 copy of the
standard and for installation advice.
Federal Emergencr Management .4genc%'.
U.S. Fire AdmmtStratlon. Residential Fire
Sprinkler Prolram. The Presidlo. Building
lOS, San Francisco 94129: 441,~) 5~6-879-i,
or toll-free (800) 63g-tO00. Since 1976,
FEMA has promoted research and
development of residential systems. Ask For
Free brochures.
Patterson, N Y. 12563; (ql4t 878-4~.00
NFSA will send you a flee. Frequentl.~
updated list o( manufacturers Of residential
sprinkler heads. and sample brochures.
Cramlenin. Ce~rral Slyink ier Corpurat #on.
I~?0 Sunshine Way, Annhelm. Cahf.
9210~; ~714) 630-4733.
Grinsell Fi~ PPo~ec,os St'stems. 564
Mateo St.. Los Anleiet Calif. 90013. ~ 21
6IT-gee0.
Three companies sul~ly polybutylene pipe
and Rttinls foe' fire sprinkler installations:
r,~/en Easnrs. 2.~! I N. 38th St.. Tampa.
Fin; 33e0~. 1813) 2a2-4211 lproduces the
ooly pol,.butylene I:,pe that has been
aplXovea by Facton' Mutual in accordance
with lad faandard f; I/asguard P~as//, s
Bo~ 34~. McPhenen. Kans 6~.&e,O.
-~dl-6369: and ~st~e~ Ma~l,r~,'r~,,~,~e.
1880 Garden Tracl Road. Richmond. Cahf
9de01. ~41S ) 233-6670.
FI ' point where ~ey ilmte expios~ve~..-
shooLinl fiar, es ~to
ALl autonut sprinter,
SPRINKLERS
FOR THE
HOME
BY ANNE ROQUEMORE
s~lLten m dmaz,d to ctt,cbarp
water m an ~mbreib4~tped spray
winch htu ~ on the w~lJ~ This
a~ ~dup ~ e~a ~
M~ ~~ ~er. ~ ~
f~f ~~ ~~ '
moat
of a I-whet
· ~t firs
sumpUon
sx~tmal
to a home
In f~
pmnt--
~va~..
o~er m
~
For years, automatic fire sprinkle
systems have proven ~eir effective-
nm m prota~ing lives mad property
from fire m hotels, stons, schools,
f~-,.orim msd office bufidi~ls.
Until recmntiy, however, automatAc
spri.nkJen wen not avatld~ for
sr, sllation m homes, and -' ~t FIe to
modify commercial systmm fee
dentisl use were unsuamsli~L Coal-
merciai sprirdden wmQ ~
coo ,Aow to combat the real qmmd
of~ammmmmthoumhAnd
they were dmqned mainly far tarl,,
olxn m with high cmlinlt rathm'
than for the many small room
found in home.
Raearch to develop an
raidentmi sprinkler Imaed tooinca-
turn in 19'/4 with the erealan of the
U.& Fiz~ Admmiatratiom which
.evelop and te~ home sprinkler
terns. As a ruuit. automatic m'
kier sysmms m now beinl dmilned
specifically for rmidentmi L, uTalla-
~xo,~ :ru over commerci/
To da~ ~vo manubaurm have
(m F~ Mm ~ ,-4
i~),
pipe and him · ckfi~tor plate m tb.,
R~ i~--tt-~ Rn'tnklm'
tomve|y,
my auto-
errsial
spray
~t helps
~e!~lper*
'~es the
the
KJers.
~me tim
up to
:ficuit,
just in
exit
for tea-
fire pro-
~rmkier
depend-
· link
on the
partxcu-
om the
· m the
~/atef to
'!ON
t~
among homoownen, in Fen !x~suas
of a prierally held
that fin sprinklers zre Imme t4
z~lZlin~i_on, lad thl .miaoabmea
,umption that a false dam wtD
suit in a gnat deal of wuta~ dama$~
to a home.
In fact. sprinklers hay· · to;mrs-
~on in inciusu-y and among
fiShten for operating dq~0ndabiMty
and ease of rnmntenanet A false
alarm--where no heat or telagnes
pr~sent--=eannot cause a sywtam te
activate. Only ~hose sprinkler brads
dirgtty exposed to heat or flame
will activate. Sprinklers lee·tad in
other t,~as of tho house ~ net
m ~he ftre, ManuAl shutoff valves
are installed at ent. ical points
throughout the system to stop the
water flow when the fire is
extinquished.
Two types of sprinkler hoads a~
available. Pendant models az~ in-
stelled in emlinp: each standard
pendant sprinkler eovers an area
144 sq. ft. (a 12xl2-ft. room. there-
fore, .requira only one sirinkier}.
When activated, IS laL of water Nr
mmuta (gpm) flow from · pendant
he~L By comparison, moet
hoees delivor from 100 to 300
Sial·wall sprinklers ero installad
on walls 4 to 8 in. below eetlinl
level. Because pipes are run be-
tween wils, one pip·line can sm"v~
teets up to 224 sq. ft. of floor are&
Water flow ralos from 24 to 30 gpm
per sprinkler, dependinS on the
modsl.
Sprinkien are desiSned to operato
on water pre~ norm·try fmmd
in remdantial m Hyd~ ink'u*
lstions basad on · 24-hour pressure
installation. A cmn/ortabio safety
ensure ~ MJ ! e~ in tho . ~ -
event of · prem ~ ' '+~"
Sine· f,_'_d' 04,t oTutmm m
trodumcL imprr, t, - ,'~ have bern
b~ maiaquats ~e._---koid wumr p
sure. For examp~k an ~
pendant sprinkler now
covert an ·rue of lge sq. i~, with ·
miramum of 18.4 psi (pounds per
squaro ~ of wstaf press·R) m-
qtursd at the most r~note he~L
Standard pendant models mr 144
sq. ft. at 41 pei.
Where w·ter pNSSUN is inade-
q~ata or water supply is |imit~L
pumps md hold~z4 rank4 at, m-
Audible alarms should !~
M.~:~e<i with ~n*..' .-est,:eP.::AA sprite-
kier system. An external alarm,
wh~h nn~s when a sprinkler
vat·s, alerts ne~hbon or pauenh7
to csil ths fir· dspsnment. An in*
tsrnsl alsrm, or smoke dstector,
tom · fire still in ths sn~tdsrtnS
stsSo smi .ssmds· wernm& allow-
Instellatlon
Thsm ms n~ specdic formula m
~m ~ ~ of s ~n~
f~t m m ~ la~uL ~ ~
fw m ~v0 ~n ~
~ m mm a ~om p~
f~ $I.M ~r ~. fL to I ~t
~. ~f~t~ a m ~
~ m ~y f~ ~ na
~ m ~ ~m ~m ~e
a~ ~ ~ N~ F~ ~n
~-: '-~ (~A) ~ ~ nm-
~~er~m~
~ ~ n~r of pi~ ~
~ h ~ o~r fm
~ im ~e wamr supply ~
~ my ~t~ly offm ~
~ ~ m m d he often
f~ s ~y sp~e~ horn. ~
~, ~ ~1o~ a 2 ~t
d~ m ~ ~le v~ d
~~ born.
~~ly. ~y l~i~
w~ ~en ~ mcl~ m
b~m A ,~t but mm~
truer an w,d~ ,VM .s~
ber of mun~ipttitim now require
remdonttal spnnkAer systems in
now-homo eonsU~ction.
As yut, howevur, neither ths man-
ufa~mrs no~ mun~pai fire
~ts r&~: m~d
rmid~ttalsprtnklonmad~it-
whan OIo sprinklen wee in early
develommat wm fro. e~ .... . to
eal. the pr~er siza of pipes too im-
portrant to be left in tho hands of an
rottour.'
GM edvisa ho,--:_,an to
the manu/aeturur, or someone they
rue~-,-ad, install the systez Be-
sideskneet~h~emdoU2ework,
· prokssimml instsller csn help
warranty and local buttdtnl ot~
Homaownan may. how, v~r. kmp
inl tha pmlmrm~on and rouShinl-m
work m tha manuh~m'er's
eaters. ~ could includ~ opening
~ |ocally. which ~ reducm
for ~ gtuai installation, resting
and ~ ,sJt~
FOIl IIORI INFORMATION
CemralSmemmeCom~,Thnl&CaenonAvet.
t, lnl~le. FA tM41
/~/
" (PStJH
I, I, JII.I) ING (;Oi:)i.=
,
1603 ORRINGTON AVINUE. EVANSTON, ILUNOIS 60201
TRADING,OFF
LIFE SAFETY
J. Walter Coon
Staff Fire Protection Consultant
Burns & McDonnell Engineers
& Arcmtects
Trade-offs -- I~uilding code conces-
sions m exchange for the installation of
an automatic spnnkler system -- are
not only sacrificing life safety, they're
also infringing on the professional in-
tegrity and expertise of the architect to
design a facdity that satisfied his or her
eth:cal and moral obligation tO provide
the user maximum safety from the con-
sequences of fire and adequate, safe,
egress in a building emergency.
Even with the knowledge that a
sprinkler system, like any mechanical
system, is subiect to failure or realfunc-
tion, Duilding code departments in
many parts of the country are :}sing
pressured to reduce fire safety con-
struction features in buildings as a
means of underwriting tl'ie costs of in-
stalling sprinkler systems, providing
construction cost sawngs, and adding
additional space that would have tradi-
taonally been allocated by code to ex-
isting provisions.
We have all lived with trade-offs for
years. All of our building codes allow
some degree of area and height in-
creases. and the NFPA Life Safety
Code contams a multitudeof trade.off1
(called "exceptions' '), for facilities pro-
tected with automatic sprinkler sys-
tems.
How has this tradi ng-off of traditional
life safety construction in exchange for
this mechanical property protection
system become a natsonai epidemic?
Special interest groups are the an-
swer; and their special interests are
strictly economic, with apparently in*
sufficient regard for life safety ramlfica-
hone.
Automatic sprinklers do have an ex-
ceptional record of property protec-
tion. and it ~s not difficult to cite their ex-
cellent merits and recommend their
use. Put they are not the life safety pan-
acea many believe them to De -- and
many want to believe that they are for
economic considerations.
1979 Study
A year-long study by the University
of Marylane in 1979 based on data
from 27,000 actual fires and data oD.
rained from the U.S. Fire Administra-
tion Fire Data Center determined the
following: ( 1 ) Interior wall assemblies
appear to have the greatest overall ef-
fect on the extent of fire damage, with
the relative probability of fire spread in-
creasing as the fire resistance of these
walls decreases. (2) The relative proD-
ability of fire damage increases as the
tire-resistant characteristics of con-
structjon decrease. (3) The percentage
of out-of-control fires increases as the
firs-resistant quality of construction
decreases.
The following list of trade-offs was
published by one national sprinkler
manufacturer, and repnnted in an ar-
ticle :}y a member of the staff of Factory
Mutual Insurance Engineering Divi-
s ion in the Consulling Engineer trade
magazine. I Quote from the paragraph
preceding the list: "Builtling owne~
can also fincl significant savings in ~,
clucecl consrucOon costs ar~ i~
occupancy callacity. These are
achieve~l Ixirrenly Ncause sl3fnkler
ixoection may permit · rnoN fiexil~e in-
tefWe~ltion of Ouik~ting cons... the
yeayen or recl-offs me/irclxi:" (The
following list is identicN to the list
found in the sprinkler manufacturer's
brochure.)
· Increases of 100% to 300% in gross
floor areas, depending ugon occu-
pancy, heigm, and construction.
· An increase in I~uilding height
equivalent to one additional story or
10 feet, unless the occupancy or
construction otherwise requires
sprinklers.
· Elimination of the requirement for
smokeproof tower exit construction
or stmrwell pressunzation.
· Reductions in the fireDroofing re-
quirements for structural members
of the building as well as the fire
instance ratings of the ceiling, wall,
and floor assemblies.
· Reductions in the fire rating of clo-
sures for vertical openings.
, Increased travet distances of 50% to
100% to exits.
· Increased allowable exit capacity
per unit w~dth of exit stmrways.
, Increased number and size of open-
ings m fire wails.
· Less frequent subdivision of attic
and concealed spaces Dy fire and
draft stops.
· Elimination of firs dampers in ducts
and piehums except at fire walls,
horizontal exitways, and vertical
shafts.
· Reduced thickness of combustible
roof framing members.
· Elimination of automatic door clo-
sures on corridor doors.
· Reduction in number and location of
automatic fire detectors.
· Greater freedom in choice of inte.
materials in terms of combustibih
and flamespread ratings.
Sprinkler Failures
Remember, too, that a sprinkler sys-
tem is a mechanical system and, as
such, is subject to failure. Recorded
reasons for sprinkler failure are:
· A water supply valve left closed.
· A system shut down for remodeling
or rapmr. The recent firs in the Texas
School Book Depository building is
a prime example. The facility was
completely sprinklered, but at the
time of the fire the sprinkler .System
water supply valve was closed to fa-
cilitate repair of leaks, and inadver-
tently left in the closed position over-
night.
· A change of occupancy creating a
fire so intense it overpowers the
original design of the sprinkler sys-
tem, as in a recent 10 million dollar
K-Mart fire.
· A fire above the ceiling. The :ire in
New York City high-rise
classic example of what could ha,
pen even if the I:}uddsng rqad Dean
tally sprinklered. The fire Prigmated
in the concealed sOace aOove me
ceiling of an office on me 33rd floor
THE ECONOMICS OF FIRE PROTECTION:
FAST-RESPONSE RESIDENTIAL SPRINKLERS
by
R.T. Ruegg and S.K. Fuller
National Engineering Laboratory
National Bureau of Standards
'U.S. Department of Commerce
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Reprinted from CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND
ECONOMICS, Vol. 3, ~3-57, 1985
NOTE:
Thls paper Is a contribution of the
Natlone1 Bureau of Standards and is
not subject =o copyright.
Co~mr~c. on .~nagemeu ~ Eco~oemc3. 1985. 3, 43-S7
]
]
l
The economics of fire protection: fast-response
residential sprinklers
sprinkler systems.
j
The US has one or the hillsen fire death rata in the industrialized world. There are nearly 30
deaths per nUllioo persons in the US u coralreed with an ayesis for industrialized counms of
about I J and · rate weft bdow l0 in Aultfik Germany, Switm'imd and The Nedmriands. Fire
is the smoM moll bequent mira d mxidental drab in US bornre. Addiliondly. well ova ·
· bilfion doom d residentiaJ i:woperty Im faults each year froas fife in ram- and two-fanaJy
dwellinls done (FodsfsJ hisracy Men*it _:t ANmscy. Ill3). The potmUd for IMp
savinls exists in measures to redms residential On Iotare. Current budptsry Wasurn.
· howwe. ate formini tsdu~om in tM collective fife IsrotmUoe acUviUm of some US towns and
cidm. A Itowinl nmmba of towns, ntis and individuals ale, timefore, sedUnl new approaches
to lie mitiSstioa wbidl would dre~ effective protection s lowre' con. ,
Tlm putpine d' tbil ImPft. wlKh ie bemd oe · ready performed at the National Bureau of ,~
Stand~el in tim Urnted Stem (Ruell Imt Fullft. 1914). is to devdop and illusu'ate a
metbadolol/foe aueuinl tim momic fe&ibiiity d · new suitely for mmlatml rendentiaJ
01444193,1:!]03.0D*12 ,~ I~IIE.&FN..~aeLKL
,1
~re losses: last-response spnnkler systems. The rocks is on modelling the investment decision as
It a,'Tects an tndivldua. I homeowner. The mter-relauonsl'up of the homeowner's decision with
that of budden and mumcspal governments is :'lso discussed.
First. the paper provides back&round on reddenUsA spnnk]er technology and the dec~eion
process. Secondly. a model is presented to determine the expected value net benefits to the
homeowner ol'inv~stl ng tn a fast-response sprinkler system. TT~rd. estimates orgysara costs and
probable benefits are dr, eloped for severa. I hypotheucaJ case stu~es. and net present v&iue
benefits over the estzmated system life are calculated. Break-even values are also ca/culated in
two of the cue studin to estimate t he minimum or maximum changes required for the system to
become cost etTecuve under va,nous conchlions. The final secuon contains a summay,
conclusions and suggestions for further research.
Sprieile technoloDr
Automatic spnnk let systems consist of a configuration o1' water pipinl to which ate connected
automatic sprmkier heneLi. devices wh]cb open mdiv,dually and aurora·airily by operaLion
heat-responsZve releasing mechanism to discharge water in a spec{l~ecl pattens and det~ty over
a designated azea. Spnnkler systems reduce loss of life and property by detectinl a fire early and
suppressing fu'e spread ether by extinguishjnl the fire altogether os conanimal it to a smaller
size. Thus sprZnkler systems generally increase the tame and avalable route for occupants to
escape fires. wh~le limiting the amount o[ property damale-
Not until recently has spnnklet technololy been applied to residential use in the US. A new
report lncLjcates that there are only about 20430 houses in the US wlkich have sprinkler systems
(Dousin~l Home Fires. 19821, In contrast. spnnkler systems have ionl been widely uted in
commer~al and institutional builctinp where ther ctTecUveness in savinl live and protmUnl
property has been well documented.
Until recently a major technical impediment to the use oEsprinkler systems in resicle_L,c~-- was
the non-avaJlabdity in the marketplace of systems specially enlJne~red for home use. Futer
sensag and activating devices are generally' required for residential use than rorcommsrgial
because temperatures and gases nse to lethal levels faster in smaller rooms with lower cellinls.
Moreover. dilTerences in the typical distributions and nature o1' room contents cause tim
commercial spnnkler heads not to he well suited for residential use. Another problem has ben
system appearance. in addition fear c~ accidental water discharp accounted for further
r~luctance or homeowners to install the systems. The hip cosl o[comnmrgial-lyPt systems, as
well as the lack of an active product distnNtion and servN:e network for residential u.Nts
d~scou raged their adoption- These impediments. loBethel with a low level of pubtic awarefNtl o1'
the fire problem land. hence. low vaue as·lined to t~re protection systems). resulted in Litde
~ctJvity in the residential spnnkler market.
Recent developments. however. sullesl the need for · closet look It the polemini fur sprinkler
s~stems ~n houses. Enlmeennl developments include the production and marketinl o[ a rut-
r~p~nse spn nk let head that actsvales :~ to I :~ times raster than previously available commercial-
t? pe heads. !t also has an improved walet distribution patter11 adequate rot residential use, The
likelihood of' unnecessary activation oi' additional spnnkler heads heyoN those in the
[
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[
[
[
[
[
[
[
: [
[
[
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The economec3 of life profro*tin,.* ]'uJg.rrspo,se resad~ncini silrmkle'.s 45
· immediate vicinity of a fire is r~duced. Tl~e threat of accidental water discharlll from spnnkler
heads also has been reduced to extremely low levels: less than one-m-on~ million per year. This
may be compared with the rouihly one-in-one hundred per year chance in the US o( havinl a
home fir~ bil enoup to be reported tFederai Emerllncy Manalement Apticy, 1912},
New desgins specially tadored for residential use make sprinklers less obtrusive and may meet
aesthetic requirements for most houses. DesiF chinIts embodied in the revised US
Standard 13D for residential spnnklers I National Fire Protection Aueciation, 1980)offer the
potential of lower cost systems. The possibility of using a combined piping system. serving both
· spnnklcr and household water needs. ofters lower piping costs and the allowance of a small-
orifice spnnkler head reduces water flow requirements. Furthermore, althoulh not explicitly
listed as acceptable pupung material. ptast:c puprag* with its consKlerabk potential for further cost
reductions. is not precluded by the I,*S Standard 13D. provided it be approved by a testing and
inspection agency laboratory.
Additional saygrip are provided by the reductions in fire insurance premiums that some
companin are offenng to homeowners wsth houses containinl sprinklus. Perhap0 most
importantly, communities that us~ resKlential spnnkler systems on a larl~ scale may be able to
reduc~ the costs of centralized fire protection. Assessment of the technical performarea and
impact potential of the improved residential spnnkler systems is unduway I Budnick, 1914 ), as
are research efforts to improve further the engmeennl desiln of the systems tBattelle, undated},
l-a, ~ proem
The decision to include fire sprinkler systems in houses may he matk by individual homeowners
and by builders/clevelopers who. respondinl to market dgmand, may olkr then as a standard
feature in speculative housing, The investment decisions of individual hom~owners and
builderss/developers may be in ~uenced by related tax. code and zoninl provisions of ~ state
and national governments. For example, some municipal Iov~'nmmlts in the US have offerrd
builders/developers and homeowners ~nannal inducen~nzs to inslilt sprinkkr systems,
expectinl economic tradeoffs between thes~ self-protection systems a~l coilactively provided
fire protection strateges- such as fire stations. For instance, build~rs~dev~ioRrs who alr~ to
install sprinkkrs in speculative housml have begn oflu~ by tM local Iovm'nn~nt zoninl
approvals for hilbrrdensity housing, r~ducegl cod~ requitm%~nts for t~1~ rmistnnl construction,
and lemmod land set-uigle reqmrements for fire lann and stauons, Thn~ congnaions may
increu~ the builders' profits .and. or lower housinl coon to consumers |Dintoni Home Fires,
1982). * '
The ability of · communuty to reduce collective protmion services in exchanle for self-
protection is. ho~a~ver. delxndent on the proportion of rmd~nts who inveet in slmnklen- For
example. tl~ dec~on of nnl? .~ few homeowr~rs to install sprinkkrs affords little opporxunity
for ch0~p*~l housinl d, nsmes or scalml down tha sm of lire stauons. [n short. the private
dmaioe to inv~ in spnnkkrs and the puMic demion to inve~ in collguve fire mitilaUon
mrvig~ can be hilhly anterdcr~ndent.
Mm~d sfmcilkadoa
~e ~ne~t~ost m~el encompu~ the f. tu~ ~nefit~ H they would
of purch~lni and i~tallin8 a r~identlaJ spnnk~r syste~ u well atM life~ cmu of
owning the system over its cx~t~ life. Potential ~ne~ts coMnt primarily
death and lnJu~ From ~; r~uctioa in risk ordir~t pro~ny lm sad indirm
m~icai and legal ex~n~s. mi~ work and cost ~ tem~ra~ shelter; mible saylap
insurance costs; ~nd ~uable r~uctions :n I~al pro~ny taxn ;r the commumty coi~tiveiy
adopts spnnkic~. Potcnt:ii c~t$ consist primarily of pumhm and installation c~
For Future resale value; o~ratin& repmr. replacement a~ mantenan~ c~u; ind pro~ny
tax~ ba~ on the value o~ the system. ~e m~el a~ tiku into ~ount
ipplicable i~ome tax adjat~nt~
~c m~cl cxpr~m the ~u o[ r~uc~ ~ I~ in ex~t~ value dolla~ ~al the
probsbiSty or ~re ~curnni a~ ordeat~ injure ~ dir~ a~ indi~ I~ mui~al u~er
alternative conditio~ of fire pmt~Uo~ Venom com~ma of aUstin o~atlnl
m~ell~ on ex~ valu~ ~inl their fu~tional ~tiomhip to
~umn& Other ~neRa a~ cmu a~ m~ei~ deteminist~lly. All dollan
costs are taken over the enti~ ~ dunnl wh~h tM hornowner
spnnkler proration and a~ adjat~ to p~nt value dollan ~ that t~y ~n ~ ~mp_~ on a
time~qulvalent bM, (Rue~ er eL. 19~L Pr~t vaJ~ cm, a~ subtr~t~ from pmnt vd~
~nefiu to yield net print value ~ne~ts or Im
~e m~el mumn the ho~owner is nsk-~ut~ m the Nm of ~ttinI eq~ e~t on
each dollar of loll and lain and ~inl indiffe~nt ~tw,n a Fven ex~ val~ amount
cc~ainty equivalent val~/It is rusher mu~ that tM horncower
ex~t~ net ~ne~ obtanabk from avmlabk fu~ He~ ~lti~
appl~nl the m~el a~ inte~m~ to man that the ho~w~r ~H p~y ~h to
a syste~ apa~ from mibk constr~nts s~h u i~om availah~ty a~ tM s~ ~ tM im~
c~h outlay ~quiremen~ Net lm on the ot~r ha~ i~te that the hom~
wish to pu~hm t~ syste~
~m ~sumptio~ co~titute limitations of t~ m~l in that ho~w~ in m~ty
exhibit varying deg~ of ask p~fe~m. have im~ infomatio~ a~ in ~ ~ do not
always ~have u rational ~onom~ d~sion ~e~ For eump~ a homw~ who ~ ink-
avem will weigh the lm morn ~avily than tM ~ a~ may rationSly i~U a s~nkkr
system even ~hen the ex~t~ val~ of ~t ~6U ~ ~lati~ ~e a~i~tion
to the probkm is ~ to t~e into ~nl diffeml mk p~km~ ~m t~
limitatxons, corr~t ap~Ution of the m~d ~n h ex~ to sugar te~em of t~
homeowner to wush to buy ~ n~ buy the syste~
~e m~el can ~ rep~n~ mathemat~aily u follows:
ENB- ill
whe~ E~B is t~ ex~ mat value dolla~ of ~t ~a (or ~) to a ho~w~r from
ownin8 a ~ s~nk~ syste~ EVB~ is Ihe ex~ val~ of t~ ho~wRr's ~6u in ~arj.
EFC is the ex~ vaJ~ of the homeowner's cNts in ~ar j. N is t~ humor d y~n over
E
'E
I
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1
T~I e~oncx~ ~f.firt prottct~on; f~t-re~potut residehaZed ~p~tnkltr5 4~
~h~h ~ne~ ~ c~u of the s~tem ~ ~valuat~ ~n~l ~th ]- I, ~ d S t~
homeownef'% ~Kount ~tL
Div~inl tot~ ~u ud toed c~a ~ the spn~ system into major ;om~n~ t~
m~el may ~ ~ u foUo~:
v ~-Di +PL+C +iN +MTS+OB (2}
and
~.'~ (l ~-d)1 ' PI -S +OP + M +P +OC
(3)
ENB-(D! +PL +C +IN +MTS +OB)-(PI-S +OP +M +P +OC)
where. with the 'bar' denotinl present value,
D"'7- reduced risk of death and injury,
P'Z - reduced risk of uninsured and non-reimbursable dire~t loues,
~' - reduced risk of out-of-pocket indirgt coma,
1'~* - insurance premium aliacounts. ¢Note that total insuranc~ costs need not be taken into
account if it is assumed that irtsuranc~ will be putgbased whether or not ~ homeowner buys
spnnklers; i.e. only the change atmbutable to sprinklers need be included.)
M T$ -local tax sayrots du~ to mun~imi coet r~luctions.
~ - other spr~nkkr benefits. such u lower cormauction costs du~ to lower fire mam~c~
P'~ - putchin and inetallat~on costs takin$ iato account financml. deducUons of intemt
costs from taxabk income., and otber appLk:abk tax
~ - resak'proceeds of the sprinkler system if abe hour ~s sold prior to abe end of t~ sysmWs
useful life,
0'~- total life-cyck operating costs.
,~- maintenance. repmr and replacement costs,
P - increased properly tax.
0'~- other cosIs resulUng from sprinkler
T~e formulae for calculating each of the ahov~ pr~ent value benefit and cost items are described
in the Appendix.
Sdeeted cam qtkafr-
To demonstrata bow the model can be ueKI and to lain insgibe as to the pmential economac
feasihiity of msidm~tia~ sp~nkb' systmm under specifmcl conditions. the rmults of nine
hypotha~cal case studm an summariad below. For each of tM nine casa. the model of the
homeowner's invatment decision is applied to a sprinkler system in *___-J,~,_rdance with US
///
48 R~.~ ~mi Fuller
Standard 13D-1980, installed in a new. two-storey, 2175 .t't~ (202 ma), single-family urban
dwelling. The following common assumpnons apply to each of the nine ca.s~:
The probability of having a residential fire corresponds to the US avenge frequency of
occurrence as revealed by recent US fire statistics lFcderal Emergency Manalgment Agency,
1982}. summarized in Columns I and 2 of Table 1.
~ Spnnlder system elTectlveness conforms to that predicted by the results of r~znt US
laboratory and field tests IComl:~erg et ,,L. t984). summarized in Columns 3 to 6 of Table I.
3. The homeowner has a Iong-~n average opportunity cost, after taxes, of 1 t.3% including
inflation, and 6% without inflation. on alternative |·vestments of equal risk (Holland et ~al.,
1977).
4. A value per life of ~0.~} million and a value per injury of ~43.02 million are assumed for the
homeowner ~Graharn and Vaupel, t98 1 ).
5. The homeowner is in a 40'/, marginal composite income tax bracket.
6. The system has a life of 30 years.
7. Direct and indirect dollar losses per fire correspond to averages of s~mple loss data for the
US (Federal Emergency Management Agency, 1982; Munson and Ohls, 19~01k
8. Insurance rates and proper~y tax rates correspond to averages of sam!~ data for the US
{Stevenson, 1978; US Bureau of the Census, 1981 ~
The distinguishing features of each case and its 'bottom line' estimate of net befits or Iossn
ue summarized and may be compazed in Table 2. The spe~i~c ca~ assumptions in Tabl~ 2 ate
in addition to thg set of common assumptions set forth above.
The far nght column of Table 2 (row l) shows that under Case I assump~iona, costs are
estimated to exceed boneflu by about S1500 in present valu~ dollars over · 30 y~z pm, iod, This
present value net loss reduces to $100 for Case 11 for which it is additionally usumad dial local
property taxes levied apinst the system are waived and that yearly municipal colt lay·nil from
not building another fin station are pused on to the hon~own~t in th~ form of ~ local
taxes. This result is very close to a break-even outcome. For Case !II it is further assumod thai a
federal tax credit of 20~ of initial costs is allowed to homeowners who install th~ system,
resulting in a present value net benefit of
Instead of ~r in. 11.27 cm) polybutylene piping us~l in Case I, more costly !t in. {3.17
copper piping is used in Cue IV. resulling in a prosong value net Iou of approximately $3500.
This cue is presented to provide an update of an earlier cost slndy (lens· et dsL, 197l} and to
demonstrate tl~ signx~(:anu of smaller, less expensive polybutylene i~pinl in ·chitring SySlIm
cost reduction. Cue V adds to Cue IV the pessamistic assumption ofa waler demand charll for
houses with sprinkler systems, whgh increases the present value .net Ion to $~500. This ca~
demonstrates the impediment to spnnkler use thai is imposed by a municipalily which levin a
water demand or *standby' fee,.
Case V! dilkrs from Cue I as follows: the homeowner buys no fire insuranc~ and th~ cost
sayrap from not insunng an ·ltnbuted to th~ spinkler system. Tho estimated mull of this
strategy, pven 'armfuls' risks oflir~ and a,u~cialed lout, is a prn~nt valu~ n~ bondit
. over 30 yea·, This cas~ is unlikely to be widely applicable becaus~ melt homaownm,s ar~
required to carry lir~ iosuranc~ as · condition of oblaaning a motpig or, in any ~ do not
elect to 's~lf-insum' becau~ they are risk averse..
T~ economics o]' firr proceczk~: /as~-rnpo~t rr~dem~ai sprmkJrrs
//~
The economic3 ojr )~re protection ,' fast.response res|denfial sirinklers
~i"i.:----,,: -;-
-:,.::--'---.' ~ .:-ili [[
:,:: :i'. i!:::-;: ['
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J
J
J
J
$1
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Ru~gg and F.II~
Care VII is identical to Case V[ except that the savinls from omittinI insurance are not
attributed to the spnnkler~: i.e. the decision not to insure is assumed to be independent of
owning a spnnkler system. [n this ca.~ a present value net loss of $1600 result
Spnnklers would normally be deployed in conjunction with smoke detectors rather than
without them because of the very low cet of detectors relative to spnnklers, Case Vill with
spnnkiers alone ts ,ncludcd. however. to sue, lest the added benefits that may accrue to a
spnnkler system in the ctrcumstance where the benefits of smoke detectors may not be
attannable. An example ts when occupants are incapacitated and cannot respond to the smoke
detector alarm. The net present value loss of $12130 for this ctse is lower than that of Case !
becaus~ of the larger erapact the spnnklers now have on risk reduction. This is ilkely to be an
underestimate of the benefits since the occupants' ask exposure in this ca.1~ will be hil~er than
the average ask data used in the case studies.
Case IX applies the Case I conditions to a rental housr. This evaluation results in a somewhat
lower present value net loss of S800. reflecting the deprectaUon of system costs, the deduction
From taxable income of operating. maintenance and repair costs, and the usumption of a rent
premium to the landlord equal to the present value of the tenant's benefits of reduced risk of fire
loss.
Break-even analysis
Break-even analysis is conducted for two of the cas~ Case I and il, to (slimam the minimum
or maximum change in the value of key parameters which would be nsxMary to equate
benefits and ccsts under various conditions. Computed break.4v~n values for the two cain are
given in Table 3. To provide a point of referenct Column I shows the initial value for Case i
based on the stated assumptions and Column 2 shows the value of each patarnetm' which would
be sufficient to cause a break-even outcome. all of the other factors held constant. For example,
the results indicate that any on~ of the foliowahl valu(~ would he sullk'Wnt to yield a bmk..even
outcome, all other factors remaining the same:
lal A value of life of $5.0 million Idiscountedk
4hi A probability of incurnnl a fire about seven tilTmS the US averall rate.
lc) A percentage reduction in the insurance rate about five tinxs that assumed.
(d) An annual property tax reduction to the hom~owuer of about $100.
Columns 3 and 4 show the initial values and break-even value~, mlxctively. for Case IL
These results sndacate that for this case my odv of the f01lowinl conditions would yield a break-
even outcome. other Facton remaininI the same:
la) A reduction in system coats o1' about 6Y,
Ib) A probability of incurnnl a fire only slil~tly Imtet than that assumed.
4c) An averall value of uninsured property iou per fire without sirenklan about thl~ times.
larger than the estimated US averall dollar IoM for hou.ln without sptinkktra.
.]
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T~t economics of jire prottct~o~ : fa~t-rtspo~t res~dtm~l
Table 3 Break-even analysis.
Puameter
Pur~has~ and msta|latlon cost
lafter taxes and ~n~Qnl)
Probabdity of fire
Value or a hre sav~* (digounl~)
~vffale value of umnsur~
pro~ty I~ ~ ~e wKh~t
spnnklers
Case !
Initial Brtak-~en
values values
iX)
-SIS
0.008 Si 0,064
SO. SM $~.OM
S-~2~ Sl9 5430
Percentale reductmn m homeown~r's
,nsura~c~ raze
Hom~owner's inmranc~ ~mium S2.N
~r Sl~ ~ cov~ap
Annual proxy cu r~u~ion 0
rc~ave ~ munlap~ c~l R~u~
sayrap iconstat
Reduction in bulldff's costs 0
(us~mznl a full pm-throulh
to home I~ayer)
Federal income tu ~t lu a
~mtale ~ mltl~ ~rchm
and insl~lltj~ c~l 0
~3
Call !!
Initial BI1ak-even
values velum
43) (4)
S1445 SIN.7
0.001 ~ 0.012
SO. 5M S1~000
S,~25
64% 13% 16%
S14.~0 $ZN S3.74
592 S8:~. 16 ST. 11
Reduction (p~ Reduction (~
wm~ ~ m d
$1~1 0 M
90% 0 6%
Nole: Auumlxmns are returned to dmr inSsial slam ~ udl brmk4,ml c:akulalmlL
*Assumes an occupancy level equal to tim igll US avmlp roe houlm in wbidl peofk m lUibd or
injured by ~r~ Henc~ the break 4ven value would be smalkr tball tl~ sbowll for boulm with ~ than
averale ocnpency and larlet for houm ruth smaller zhml averall omupmmy.
'The tax reduction iS in addizton to a waver od' propmy tu on tim capitalad value od'tbe slmakJmr SyImSL
For Case II. where munmpal cost savinls are p4mll on to the bch. m~nar in dm form da proproy zu
reduction. an addttaonai reductton o[ only S7. [ I is requifmJ to brmI net ICMOm tO mtO.
Sun·mary
This paper hu devdoped · modal for evahaatinl *tim expmecl value o( n~l tininks to tim
homeowner o( · fn sprinkler system, and has ilhastrued tim modal in I Mrm o( bylxxlmicaJ
cm studies for new, sinlk-hmily dwellinp in the USA_ TIm mulls oilIra cam studm m band
on many auumpeiom and mud net beeflU from · speUkle smem my be co- ':k ably
diltermt from those mirested here. However. the cl0m may previck innliE U tO how me con-
etTectivenm o( raidenuaul spnnkler systenu is &Q'mted by plnicular conditions.
Rl~gg and Fulle,
Some inferences that may be drawn from the case studies ue the foUowinl:
(a) The cost-effectiveness ot' residentgag sprinkler systems is improved by code changes which
aglow the use o1' approved plaxtic pipe.
(b) Spnnider systems may be uneconomicaJ rot homeowners who independently purchase
systems and who ue subject to low-to-average probabilities o(fu'e and risks ol'death, injury and
propmy loss; but they may be cost-effecUve for homeowners subject to ttilhe~ risk o( ~re and in
~eater peril of death znd injury ~f ~e occurs.
(c) SpnnkJer systems are more likely to be cost-effective. other factors remaining the same, rot
homeowners who are part of a community of spnnkler users and who recmve the benefit o(
attrilxIted cost avoldafic:~ by IocaJ government or by the home Ixuider.
(d) Homeowners who live in locaJitics with 'water standby fees' of who us~ commercaal
spnnider system are unlikely to have cost-effective spnnkler system under averaie
probalxliUes o( ru'e and related death, injury. and property lou,
(e) Sprinkler systems are more likely to be cost-effective when used in situations whue
adcLition&l proteuaon is needed. such as a situation where the benefits o( smoke detecton aJo~e
may not be altzinable, for exaJTtple when occupants are incapacitated and canno( req)ond to the
aJarm.
These case findinls, thouih hypothetical. are helpful in identifying the followinl cnticaJ areas
for further explorauon:
(a) The potentiaJ o( municipaJ cost savings from sprinklered bous4s and the feuibility olr
correspondinI tax reductxons.
(b) The reuibility of cost-performance tradeoffs betwen sprinkles and ~r~ resistant
construction methods and materials.
(c) The avmlability o( discounts on insurance premiums,
(d) The pracUce o( levyinl water demand charges for spnnldered hou.18.
(e) Approaches to IowennI the cost of sprinklers.
(f) Retrolit capability.
(g) PaniaJ systefiu for fatality-prone areas of the houst
(hi Benefits acc~linI to households with different behav~ouraJ and demolzaphi~ character*
istics, livinl in hous-- o( different construction and age.
Benefit and cost item o[ Equation 4. welh the 'bar' denotinl present value:
DI -, [(p(s,j')' PIF&D)~,' DI,') ,. ul.~./'). P(F&II,,' ! V)] .(UPW~.,.,)
PL-I(x,I'). P(F)' LD,,. (.'Pw:,,.
C -dJ, J')' P(F)' CI/,,. f.'pu,':,,
IN - i~i(ia. 15). ~'P W:,...,
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~-~. SP~...
OP- wC ~ WD ~
~- ~ [PI. (I -j,'~)* r.. SP~... (~ -~)]
wk~ p(~[~ ~(~[~ !(s.[~ c(s.[) are ~he pr~ic~ fr~t,ond r~do~ a~nbu~ab~
spnnkkr sys:em in ~he probabfii~,~ pven a ~. ~ dea~ injury. unimu~ a~ non-
re,mbumbk pro~y I~. and indir~c fire cosc~ ru~,vely: P(F~ P(F&D~ ~F~)~ ~he
proba~ijcy o( fi~. )runs probabdi~y or fire a~ death. a~ joins proh~y ~ A~ a~ inju~.
r~,vely. wh~ ~he su~np~ ~ refen co a condiuon of prior proc~jon: DY. IY a~ ~he
~Uma~ dol~ value o(a death ave~ or an mju~ ave~ r~vely: ~,
dol!~ vli~ o( di~ umnsurH and non-reimbumbk I~ ~r ~ under ~k prior
s~: CY. b ~k nUmc~ avera~ vaJue o( ou~-~kes i~,~ c~u ~r A~ ~ ~ prior
the msu~ ra~ ~ S I~ of horncow ner*s coverap~ IS ~ ~ mo~g ~ ~u~ ~vera~
year j; N~ a~ ~k ss~nl costs ~o prov~e fire pro(~sion ~rvm in year j: OS; a~
ye~j o(ogkr ~l~five fi~ pro~Uon ~m: H is ~ humor ~h~~ ~nnI the c~s
~miou or ~ avo~an~ for coll~T, vely ~ovi~ ~ proemion ~; ~. e/. r~ a~ ~he
r~ly; ~I ~ ~ corn rac~ coss of sys:em pu~h~ a~ mssafias,on: DP
pl~ u a down~y~m: R P, is ~he ~mammS pn~l on ~k Soan m yur~
~he mo~pp I~: TC ~s ~he !overnmen~ai tax c~is co ~h~n ~ ho~ s~nk~r syss~s:
DTS ~ ~ i~m ux nvm~ due co dep~acion ~ s~em KqumUon c~u (ap~bk
~nsal h~nl): S. ~ ~ ~lhnl pnu o( :k system a~ ~he end o( ~ s~y ~n~ whe~ S. ~s
adjus:~ r~ uy ~a~m~ b~la~ on the mofiSap ~ u well u a~bk
~ax a~. for a ~md hour. d~pr~Sdnon ~apsure ~ax: We. WD a~ ~k wa~er ~umpuon
· AS apedie systems ilcoew ,n..,c -,Ucl~ used. st may iN pmsii~4e ~o tenfie the esnmatao~ o( rmie price by
ietHII~ 8 141fillkJef ~.ir~d~ie ,,,e,. re'..:(lefitss| l~lo~ig pfIc~ |fidm to rekt $pi'lllkifl as OM o(r ihl
alia wM Ny idw~k. is..,,,,n~ pr~e. SeL k)r Isle Fern ii9??L
]
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56 Rutg~ and hlltr
~ is the electri. city cost :f app!ieable: ,v.. h. are th~ wage rate ~r hour and lenlth of time in
hours. respectively. required For annual routine maJntenance; w,./. h,.~. m,.# are the wale rate.
length of time. and materials cost for repaJr and replacement. respectively, in year./; (I -.//4)is
the obsolescence t'actor designed to result in a zero remaining tax bas~ at the end of the system
life:.4. the variable in calculating the tax effect. is I if a rental unit, 0 is owner-occiipied;Sp Wd.v
.~P",~ .... .~pI4/,.,., are the single present worth discount formulae for ~ndinl. respectively.
the present value of the mortgage interest tax deduction in year./, the present value of resale at
the cnct o~' year t~. and the present value of the property tax change :n year .~, escalating at a
constant rate ~,; C,° F+',... (.'p H/~.,... f~'pWd.t,* are the uniform present worth discount formulae
for fincling. respecn~eiy. the total present value to the homeowner over n years of the amorttzecl
cost of the munucipal fire protection services. the present value of a series of amounts escalating
at a constant compound rate · over a pencKls. and the preMnt value of mortgage payments over
the study period. where (./PH/is based on / periods afl<n and on ,~ periods if/>,~ (1<~ the
estimate of resale value should deduct any remaining loan costs owed); (~'CR~.. (/CRu is the
uniform capital recovery trormula t'or. respectively, amortizing the senglut·, !and. operatinl.
maintenance. staffing and other costs at the estimated municipal discount rate. ~, over a years.
and amortizing the amount borrowed to ~nam:~ the sprinkler system at interest rate, i. over I
loan payment pencxts. On. OC' are not modelled in detail nor included in the kndit cost
caiculattons of the ca.s~ studies.
Battelle Columbus Laboratones tundated} t}rcelopma~t oj~ wa ~xperisu~tal PPatotyIpe Low. Cost
~ltctromc ~r~JOr/ ACtvatOr /Or a Rr~idm~l 4.tomat~c Sprinkler Hra/. Report prlp~ted fes the
Federal Emerlen~/ Mannlint Alehey.
Budnick. E.K. (1984) E~t~matietJ E~'Kt~'~ru ~' $tafe-~/'-tke. Arf Detectors ard Automatic 5ileYek/e's oN
La/e 5a/try in Res~dentla~ C~CCMOGnaII, Nattonal 8umu of StandardL NBSI R ~I..2;119. WaalUnl~on
DC.
41982) DounnI Home Fleas. The Wa.shington Post. 10 JuJy. p. E-i.
Federal Emerlency Manalema. Aleroy ! 19~2) Fire m tk C,'attad States. d4h edn. WulUnltoe DC.
Fern. M.G. I X977) An application o( hedomc mdexmI methcKls to monthly ghanla in bluntI prget
1965-1975. ,4RE{,'EA Journal. S. pp. 455-6.S.
Gomberg. A.. Hall J.R. jr.. S.efeL S.W.. OffenMnd. F.J. and Piny. A.J. (in pressl A Derision .M'ade//'ot
Et'a/uattn9 Rtsldeatial Fire-Risk Redlacnu4 ,41t~aati~ts. National Bureau o( Standards !nuralgncy
Report. Washinlton DC.
Graham, J.D. and Vauixt. J.W. 119ill Value of a life: whai differ·stag don it make? .dEsk Analysts. I
Holland. D.M. and Meyers. S.C. 11977} 7'rrnd~ m C'urIimyale PPoj~tabilily and Cap. al Costs. Alfred P. Sloan
School of Manalemenl. MaMachusctts Ins.lute of Technoioly. CambndlL MauachuNtts.
W p 937 -977.
JetMr. R. and Assc~clates. [fig. 119'Yll .~nu/u r,, E~tublisk tk@ ~.~istin9 4utomatic Fire S'upgress~om
7'¢c'hnology/at (.~, in Rlideml~l~ Ot'c,q~,,k ~, 4 .Sew)' Repart. Federal Emerlency Manapment
Alenc'y.
Munson. M.J. and Ohls. J.C. ! 191}~ Indirr&: C',,,h ,,I R¢Udemial Fires. Federal Emerlrncy Manalement
Agency. US Governmere Prmtml Once. ~'d~,hi~gtOn D(:. FA-6.
!
1.
l
l
l
Natloud Fire Prot~:ion A;a:io~ !~ II~D
ANSi~FPA
Rue5 ~T~ ~tem~ S.~ and Mabel H.~ {!~)
COSTS ~ Buf~i~s ~ Bm idW S yst~ Nattond Bu ruu of S ta~t~ N
Ruel~ R.T. and Fuller. S.K- {IBM) A ~et~t Cost M~df~
Bureau o( StaMardL ~ 1~3. Wuhmlton ~
Fire Preventnon and Control Admm=trat~oK NF~A Grit No. 7~7.
L'S Bureau of the Cens~ (19gl)5:~lstmc~ ~bs:r~t
]
]
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]
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DF AFT
FOR DISCUSSiGN PURPOSES ONLY
ORDINANCE NO. qjG~l
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA,
CALIFORNIA AMENDING CHAPTER 15.04 OF
TITLE 15, BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION,
OF THE RANCHO CUCN~ONGA .MUNICIPAL
CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE
STANDARDS NFPA 13D AND NFPA 13R, BOTH
PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL FIRE
PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, REQUIRING THE
INSTALLATION OF AUTOMATIC FIRE
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RESIDENTIAL
OCCUPANCIES AND CERTAIN BUILDINGS
ACCESSORY THERETO, WITH CERTAIN
AMENDMENTS, DELETIONS AND EXCEPTIONS
TO SAID CODES.
A. Recitals.
(i) Article 2 of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 1 of Title 5 of
the california Government Code authorizes adoption by reference of National
Fire Protection Association Standards NFPA 13D, 1989 edition, and NFPA 13R,
!989 edition, each as published by the National Fire Protection Association.
(ii) At least one copy of each of said Standards, certified as a
full, true and correct copy thereof by the City Clerk of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga, has been filed in the office of the City Clerk of the city of
Rancho cucamonga, in accordance with the provisions of Government Code Section
50022.6.
(iii) A duly noticed public hearing as required by the Government
Code Section 50022.3, has been conducted and concluded prior to the adoption
of this Ordinance.
(iv)
have occurred.
All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this ordinance
B. Ordinance.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga doeS'.
hereby find, determine and ordain as follows:
SECTION 1: In all respects as set forth in the R-citals, Part A, of
this Ordinance.
SECTION 2: Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code entitled
"Buildings and Construction", of the City Council of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga is hereby amended, provided that said amendment shall not apply to
or excuse any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance, and provided further that the Uniform Codes adopted and amended by
Ordinance No.
Page 2
Ordinance No. 412 of this City shall continue to be applicable to construction
for which permits have been issued prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance.
SECTION 3: Chapter 15.12 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is
hereby amended by adding Section.15.12.166 and 15.12.168 to read as follows:
1512.166 Section 3802 (h) Amended - Group R, Division 1,
Occupancies. Section 3802{h} of said Uniform Building Code is amended to read
as follows:
Section 3802(h) Group R, Division I Occupancies. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every Group ,
Division 1 Occupancy as follows:
In every apartment house three or more stories in height or
containing more than 15 dwelling units, and every hotel three or
more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, the
system is to be installed in accordance with UBC Standard 38-1,
"Design Installation and Acceptance of Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Systems," except that residential or quick response standard
sprinkler heads shall be used in the dwelling unit and guest
room portions of the building. The water ~ow alarm for such
systems shall be monitored by an approved central station.
In all new Group R, Division 1 Occupancies, other than those
specified in subsection (h) 1. above, the system shall be
installed in accordance with UEC Standard 38-3, "Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Apartment Houses, Hotels,
Convents and Honasteries Less than Three Stories in Height."
15.12.168 Subsections 3802 (i) and (j) added - Group R, Division
3 and Group M, Division 1, Occupancies.
Section 3802(i) Group R, Division 3, Occupancies. An automatic
fire sprinkling system shall be installed in all new Group R,
Division 3 Occupancies. System design and installation shall
conducted in accordance with UBC Standard 38-4, "Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Dwellings and Lodging Houses."
(j) Group M, Division 1 Occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkling
system shall be installed in all new Group M, Division 1 Occupancies
constructed within ten feet (10') of a residential occupancy.
EXCEPTION: Group M, Division 1 Occupancies exempt from permit
requirements by Section 301(b) 1 of the Uniform Administrative
Code, as adopted.
Ordinance No.
Page 3
Private garages and/or carports attached to or accessory to
residential buildings may be supplied from the system serving the
primary use, however, piping and installation within the accessory
portions shall be in accordance with UBC Standard 38-1.
SECTION 4: Chapter 15.14 is hereby added to Title 15 of the
Cucamonga Municipal Code, adopted by Ordinance 412, of the City Council of the
City of Rancho Cucamonga, to read in words and figures as follows:
CHAPTER 15.14
Uni form Building Code Standards
Sections:
15.14.020
15.14.030
15.14.040
15.14.050
15.14.060
15.I4.070
15.14.080
15.14.090
15.14.100
15.14.110
15.14.120
15.14.130
15.14.140
Section 1.1 Amended - Scope
Section 2-1.3 Amended - Inspection and Testing
Section 2-4.2 Amended - Fire Department Connections
Section 2-4.6 Amended - Alarms
Section 2-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers
Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 Added - Adoption
of NI:PA 13D Standard by Reference
Section 1.I Amended Scope
Section 1-5.1.2 Amended - Listed and Approved
Section 1-5.1.4 Amended - Testing and Inspection
Section 3-I.1 Amended Valves and Drains
Section 3-6 Amended - Alarms
Section 3-7 Added - Fire Department Connection
Section 4-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers
Section 15.14.010 Uniform Buildin(i Code Standard 38-3 Added
Adoption of NFPA 13R Standard by Reference. The Uniform Building Code
Standards, adopted by Ordinance No. 412 of the City of Rancho cucamonga, is
hereby amended by adoption of NFPA 13R Standard, 1989 Edition, published by
the National :ire Protection Association, Inc. Said NI:PA 13R Standard shall
be referenced as Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3, "Installation of
Automatic :ire Sprinkler Systems in Apartment Houses, Hotels, Convents and,~
Monasteries Less Than Three Stories in Height" and shall be utilized in design
and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems required by Section
3802{h) 2. of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by this ordinance, except
as further amended' by Sections 15.14.020 through 15.14.060 following.
Section 15.14.020 Section 1.1 Amended - Scope. Section 1-1 of
said Uniform building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1.1 Scope. This standard shall be used in design and
installation of automatic sprinkler systems installed in residential
Ordinance No.
Page 4
occupancies less than three stories in height, not withstanding any
conflicting story-height referenced here in.
Section 15.14.030 Section 2-1.3 Amended - Inspection and
Testing. Section 2-1.3 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Section 2-1.3 (a} Inspection and Testing. All supply piping shall
be hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA 13 Standard. All
systems shall be flow tested in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga
Fire District Standards.
(b) Inspection shall be requested by the permittee at stages of
construction as outlined below:
When underground piping is complete but prior to concealment of
any portion thereof and prior to connection to the overhead
piping riser. Hydrostatic test gauge(s) are to be in place, the
system flushed and piping pressurized for inspection.
When all overhead piping, fittings and riser are installed but
prior to concealment of any portion thereof. Hydrostatic test
gauge{s) are to be in place and the overhead system pressurized
for inspection.
When piping has been concealed and all sprinkler heads, alarm
bell(s), flow and tamper valves and monitoring devices installed
and/or connected. Testing of associated devices, ie. alarms,
flow and tamper valves and monitoring systems is to be conducted
at this time.
Section 15.14.040 Section 2-4.2 Amended - Fire Department
Connection· At least one, one and one-half inch {11/2"} or one, two and one-
half (2 1/2") fire department connection shall be provided when the sprinkler
system has twenty (20) sprinklers or more. Fire department connections shall
be located in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District
standards.
Section 1514.050 Section 2-4.6 Amended - Alarms. Section 2-4.6
of said Uniform Building Code Standard is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section.2-4.6 Alarms. All water flow alarms shall be monitored by
an approved central station in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga Fire
Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.06~ Section 2-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers·
Section 2-6 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended as
follows:
Ordinance No.
Page 5
Section 2-6 Location of Sprinklers.
in all areas.
Sprinklers shall be installed
EXCEPTIONS:
Sprinklers may be omitted from bathrooms not exceeding fifty-
five square feet (55 sq.ft. ) in area with non-combustible
plumbing fixtures.
Sprinklers may be omitted from small clothes closets where the
least horizontal dimension does not exceed three feet {3ft.) and
the floor area does not exceed twenty-four square feet {24
sq.ft.) and the walls and ceiling are surfaced with material of
Class I flame-spread classification, as defined in Chapter 42 of
the Uniform Building Code.
Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces and other
concealed spaces that are not used or intended for living
purposes or storage.
Section 15.14.070 Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 Added -
Adoption of NFPA 13D Standard by Reference. The Uniform Building Code
Standards adopted by Ordinance No. 412 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, is
hereby amended by adoption of NFPA 13D Standard, 1989 Edition published by the
National Fire Protection Association, Inc. Said NFPA 13D Standard shall be
referenced as Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4, "Installation of Automatic
Fire Sprinkler Systems in Dwellings and Lodging Houses," and shall be utilized
in design and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems required by
Section 3802(i} and (j) of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by this
ordinance, except as further amended by Sections 15.14.080 through 15.14.140
following.
Section 15.14.080 Section 1.1 Amended - Scope. Section 1.1 of
said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1.1 Scope. This standard shall be used in the design and
installation of automatic sprinkler systems installed in dwellings
and lodging houses and in certain accessory buildings, not
withstanding any references herein to mobilhomes.
Section 15.14.090 Section 1-5.1.Z Amended - Listed and Approved
Devices. Section 1-5.1.2 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1-S.l.Z. Listed and approved devices. Only listed or
approved devices and materials shall be used in automatic fire
sprinkler systems.
Ordinance No.
Page 6
EXCEPTION:
Listing may be waived for tanks, pumps and for support devices as
-~rmitted by Section 3-4.1. Use of unlisted devices shall be
approved by the Building Official with the concurrence of the Fire
Chief·
Section 15.14.100 Section 1-5.1.4 Amended - Testing and
Inspection. Section 1-5.1.4 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1-5.4.(a) Inspection and Testing. All systems shall be
hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA 13 Standard. All
systems shall be flow-tested in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga
Fire Protection District standards.
(b) Inspections shall be requested by the permittee at stages of
construction as outlined below:
When underground piping is complete but prior to concealment of
any portion thereof and prior to connection to the overhead
piping riser. Hydrostatic test gauge(s) are to be in place, the
system flushed and piping pressurized for inspection.
When all overhead piping, fittings and riser are installed but
prior to concealment of any portion thereof. Hydrostatic test
gauge{s) are to be in place and the overhead system pressurized
for inspection.
When piping has been concealed and all sprinkler heads, alarm
bell{s), flow and tamper valves and monitoring devices installed
and/or connected. Testing of associated devices, ie. alarms,
flow and tamper valves and monitoring systems is to be conducted
at this time.
Section 15.14,110 Section 3-1.1 Amended - Valves and Drains.
Section 3-1.1 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to,
read as follows:
Section 3-1.1 Valves and Drains. Each System shall have a single
control valve arranged to shut off both the domestic and sprinkler
systems, and a separate shut-off for the domestic system only.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. The sprinkler system piping may have a separate control valve
where supervised by one of the following methods:
Ordinance No.
Page 7
a s
Central station, proprietary or remote s~ation alarm
system.
Local alarm service that will cause the sounding of an
audible signal at a constantly artended point.
2. A separate shut-off valve is not required for the domestic water
supply in multi purpose piping systems.
Section 15.14.120 Section 3-6 Amended - Alarms. Section 3-6 of
said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 3-6 Alarms. Local waterflow alarm(s) shall be provided on
all systems. The waterflow alarm or alarms shall be located on (an)
exterior wall(s), or such other location(s) as approved by the
Building Official with the concurrence of the Fire Chief, and so
located as to be audible throughout the building.
Section 15.14.130 Section 3-7 Added - Fire Department
Connection. Chapter 3 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-1 is hereby
amended by addition of Section 3-7 to read as follows:
Section 3-7 Fi re Department Connection. A11 R-3 occupanc i es
exceeding 5000 sq.ft. in floor area shall be provided with an
approved fire department connection installed in accordance with
Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.140 Section 4-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers.
Section 4-6 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 3B-4 is hereby amended to
read as follows:
Section 4-6 Location of Sprinklers.
in all areas.
Sprinklers shall be installed
EXCEPTION:
Sprinklers may be omitted from bathrooms not exceeding fifty-
five square feet (55 sq.ft.} in floor area with non-combustible"
plumbing fixtures.
Sprinklers may be omitted from small closets where the least
horizontal dimension does not exceed three feet (3 ft.} and the
floor area does not exceed twenty-four square feet (24 sq.ft.}
and the walls and ceiling are surfaced with materials of Class I
flame spread classification as defined in Chapter 42 of the
Uniform Building Code.
Ordinance No.
Page 8
Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces and other
concealed spaces that are not used or intended for living
Purposes or storage.
Sprinklers may be omitted from entrance foyers that are not the
only means of egress.
SECTION 5: The Mayor shall sign this 'rdinance and the City Clerk shall
cause the same to be published witl~in fifteen (15} days after its passage
at least once in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin a newspaper of general
circulation published in the City of Ontario, California, and circulated
in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, Cal i fornia.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this
AYES:
day of August, lggO.
NOES:
ABSENT:
Dennis L. Stout, Mayor
CITY OF KANCHO CUCAMONGA
MElV[0RANI)UM
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
June 5, 1995
Bill Makshanoff, Building Official
The following represents the results of the informal fee survey of Foothill Chapter and Citrus
Belt Chapter jurisdictions. In summary, the following can be seen.
1. Questionnaires were sent to 31 member jurisdictions and responses were received back from
22, a response factor of 71%. Reference sample letter and questionnaire, attachment 1.
2. Of the 22 respondents, 7 have adopted Table 3-A, 14 have not. One did not respond to
question # 1. Reference Attachment 2.
3. Of the 22 respondents, 20 use the "Building Valuation Data Table" as the basis for
calculating building valuations. Reference Attachment 2.
4. Of the 22 respondents, 3 use an altemative method of calculating permit fees, 17 do not.
Two did not respond to question #3.
Pomona uses a tiered approach to calculating fees. Hemet responded "Yes" to this question,
however, uses a similar approach to Table 3-A with modified unit fees. For residential
permits, Hesperia calculates their permit fee based upon the area of the building. Reference
Attachment 2.
In order to get an idea as to the fee differences between Rancho Cucamonga and the surveyed
cities, two example calculations were performed. The first example was for a small "tract" home
of 1,200 sq. t~. with a 400 sq. ft. garage. The second example was for a larger home of 3,000 sq.
ft. with a 600 sq. ft. garage. For comparison purposes, the examples did not consider added
valuation for residential fire sprinkler systems, however, did assume the installation of an air
conditioning system. (The April, 1994, Building Valuation table was used for the sample
calculations.)
In reviewing the results, the values in each respective % Diff. column reflects the percentage
difference of combined plan check and permit fees to those same fees for Rancho Cucamonga.
The formula used to calculate the % Diff. Values was as follows:
{(Ex. 1 B/P + Ex. 1 P/C) + (RC B/P + RC P/C)} - 1 = % Diff. Ex. 1
or
Arcadia: {($1,123.60 + 955.06) + ($567.00 + $425.63)} - 1 = 109.41%
In reviewing the results of this survey, one can clearly see that for residential building permits of
similar value, fees in Rancho Cucamonga are significantly lower than the average of the survey
cities. Further, it appears that, as valuations increase, this disparity increases further.
For the first example, only five survey cities had lower fees than Rancho, in example two, only
three. Hemet had the lowest fee for example 1 at 16.35% below Rancho, yet they were 36.16%
higher in example 2. Barstow and Victorville were both 6.61% below Rancho in example 2.
Monrovia had the highest fee for example 1 at 131.46% above Rancho while, Baldwin Park set
the standard for the second example at 150.42% higher than ours.
In the final analysis, we could play with the numbers all day long with varying logic as to why
and how we can "justify" revising our fees. As you know, however, we must justify our fees
based upon the level of service we are providing. If we attempt to adopt Table 3-A or make any
other fee changes without providing the required justification we can expect to be visited by the
Paladin Group soon.
Jurisdiction
FEE QUESTIONNAIRE SUMMARY
Example I Example 2 % Diff.
B/P P/C B/P P/C Exam. 1
FOOTHILL CHAPTER CITIES
% Diff.
Exam. 2
~ity of ArcadiaI $1,123.60 $955.06 $2,065.60 $1,755.76 109.41% 131.68%
~ity of Claremont $1,076.00 $860.80 $1,826.00 $1,460.80 95.12% 99.27%
~ity ofCovina2 $834.40 $766.00 $1,559.40 $1,418.50 61.23% 80.55%
~ity of E1 Monte3 $743.25 $322.24 $1,284.75 $556.73 7.34% 11.65%
Uity of Fontana $635.00 $412.75 $1,126.00 $731.90 5.55% 12.64%
Uity of Glendale $678.70 $441.16 $1,248.70 $811.66 12.82% 24.92%
:ity of Monrovia4 S I, 158.50 $1,139.00 $1,908.50 $1,889.00 131.46% 130.24%
:ity ofMontclairs $677.00 $657.00 $1,202.00 $1,182.00 34.39°/~ 44.54%
~ity of Ontario $567.50 $368.87 $996.50 $647.72 -5.67% -0.31%
~ity of Pasadena $977.00 $635.05 $1,70 I. 10 $1,105.72 62.40% 70.17%
~ity ofPico Rivera $778.75 $632.19 $1,544.25 $1,282.87 42.14% 71.41%
?,ity of Pomona6 $727.50 $574.80 $1,477.50 $1,174.80 31.20% 60.81%
~ity of Redlands $657.00 $427.05 $1,182.00 $768.30 9.21% 18.24%
Uity of Whittier $658.90 $428.29 $1,161.60 $755.04 9.53% 16.20%
tPlan check fee = 85% of the building permit fee, 65% for plan check, 20% for energy
plan check.
2Includes a "Contractor's license verification" fee equal to .05% of the valuation and an
issuance fee ors 17.00. Plan check fee equals 100% of the building permit fee, 80% for plan
check, 20% for energy plan check.
3Includes a "business license" fee (which also funds inspection) equal to 50% of the
permit fee. Plan check fee equals 65% of the "basic" permit fee.
4Includes $ 22.50 for issuance, micro filming and automation to all building permits;
$3.00 to all plan check fees for automation.
slncludes a $ 20.00 issuance fee for all building permits.
6Includer. a $ 9.00 issuance fee for all building, '~---,rni.ts.
CITR US BELT CHAPTER CITIES
Fown of Apple Valley $884.84 $353.94 $1,570.16 $628.07
~ity of Baldwin Park7 $836.40 $710.94 $2,232.60 $1,897.71
=ity of Barstow $536.00 $348.40 $933.50 $606.78
=ity of Corona $599.00 $389.35 $1,956.00 $686.40
~ity ofHemets $437.00 $393.30 $1,182.00 $1,063.80
2ity of Hesperia9 $712.19 $320.49 $1,256.88 $565.60
2ity of Victorville $536.0o $348.40 $933.50 $606.78
~ity of Yucalpat° $933.00 $326.55 $1,657.00 $579.95
AVERAGES $762.16 $536.89 Sl,454.80 $L008.00:
.~a'lcho Cucatllonga $567.00 $425.6~ $942.50 $706.88
24.80% 33.28%
55.88% 150.42%
-10.90% -6.61%
-0.43% 60.21%
-16.35% 36.16%
4.03% 10.49%
-10.90% -6.61%
26.89% 35.62%
30,87% 49.32%
7Baldwin Park differentiates between the average and good tinit valuations by considering
volume, clerestory, excess glazing, etc. For comparison purposes, the "average" value was used
for example # 1, the "good" value was used on example #2.
sUses the "average" value for homes with composition roofs. For comparison purposes
the "good" value was used for both examples.
9Calculates an "adjusted" floor area using a multiplier of 1.00 for living area and 0.50 for
garage area. Example 1 valuations was based upon a total adjusted floor area of 1,400 s.f.;
example 2 adjusted floor area equal to 3,300 s.f.
~°Same as footnote 9.
T H E
DANCHO
C I
T
Y
O
F
A
May 1, 1995 L
ATTACHMENT 1
TOUPPER(FIELD(EMPLOY_CTY))
FIELDIf_NAME) HELD(L_NAME)
FIELD(POSITION)
FIELD(ADDRESS)
FIELD(CITY), FIELD(STATE) FIELD(ZIP)
Dear FIELD(F_NAME),
The City of Rancho Cucamonga is considering modifying its current building permit fee table to
coincide with Table 3-A of the 1991 Uniform Building Code. As part of this effort, we are
interested in establishing how other cities in the Citrus Belt Chapter, I.C.B.O. determines their fees.
We appreciate your effort to assist us by completing this brief questionairre. At~er finishing the
questions, please attach a copy of the requested documentation and return to;
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
Jim Martin
Plan Check Coordinator
P.O. Box 807
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91729
Thank you for your assistance in this effort.
Sincerely,
Community Development Department
Building and Safety Division
James A. Maxtin, Jr., C.B.O.
Plan Check Coordinator
Mayor William J. Alexander ,_,, ,,. Councilmember Paul Biane
Mayor Pro-Tern itex Gutierrez ,?.k.~,,. ~ ,:. Councilmember James V. Curatalo 3 LlZ
Jack Lain. AtCP, City Manager ~i~i Councilmember Diane Willlares )
10500 Civic Center Drive · P.O. Box 807 · Rancho Cucamonga. CA 91729 · (909) 989-1851 · FAX (909) 987-6499
FEE QUESTiONAIRRE
Jurisdiction: FIELD(EMPLO Y_CTY)
Y N
12 12
I would like a copy of the results upon compilation.
The FIELD(EMPLOY_CTY) has adopted Table 3-A, 1991 UBC as printed. (If "NO" is
selected, please attach a copy of the fee table adopted.)
To establish building valuations, the FIELD(EMPLOY_CTY) currently uses the "Building
Valuation Data" table as printed in Building Standards magazine. (If "NO" is selected,
please attach a copy of the valuation table used for new buildings. It will not be necessary to
include valuations for minor improvements, i.e. reroofing, masonry walls, fencing, etc.)
The FIELD(EMPLOY_CTY) uses the GOOD/A VERAGE/BOTH (circle one) values when
determining the total value on new residential construction. If both values are used for
different project types, please explain when and how each is used.
12 12 The FIELD(EMPLOY_CTY) currently uses an alternative method of determining permit
fees, i.e. hourly rates. (If "YES" is selected, please attach a copy of your schedule.)
Person completing questionairre:
Telephone:
Upon completion please mall to:
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
Jim Martin
Plan Cheek Coordinator
P.O. Box 807
Rancho Cueamonga, CA 91729
Thank you for your assistance.
ATTACHMENT 2
Contact Person
Roy Streeter
Duane Marks
Milton Massanet
Robert Lopez
Andy Shipper
Harvey Thomas
Richard Yoder-Edney
Steve Gfiggs
Tony Lopez
William Schlecht
Bill Edwards
Margaret Reilly
Nick Anderson
Richard Hubinger
Buster Scholl
Peter Ho
Marlowe Kulseth
Keith Clarke
Colin McNie
Thomas Harp
Ben Baker
Bryan ZuDDi~er
FEE QUESTIONNAIRE SUMMARY
Jurisdiction Question Question Question
#1 #2 #3
FOOTHILL CHAPTER CITIES
Response
Requested
City of Arcadia N/R~ N N/R~ Y
City of Claremont N Y N Y
City of Covina N Y N Y
City of E1 Monte Y Y N Y
City of Fontana Y Y N Y
City of Glendale N Y N Y
City of Monrovia N Y N N
City of Montelair Y Y N Y
City of Ontario N Y N Y
City of Pasadena N Y N Y
City of Pico Rivera N Y N Y
City of Pomona N Y Y Y
City of Redlands Y Y N Y
City of Whittier N Y NfR~ Y
CITRUS REL T CHAPTER CITIES
Town of Apple Valley N Y N Y
City of Baldwin Park N Y N Y
City of Barstow Y Y N Y
City of Corona Y Y N Y
City of Hemet N Y Y Y
City of Hesperia N Y Y Y
City of Victorville Y Y N Y
City of Yucaioa N N N Y
~No Response
DECLARATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
DEBRA J. ADAMS states and declares as follows:
I presently am, and at all times mentioned herein have been, the City
Clerk of the City of Rancho Cucamonga. Acting in that capacity, on June
8, 1995 at 3:00 p.m., I posted a tree and correct copy of the City Council
meeting agenda dated June 14, 1995, at 10500 Civic Center Drive,
Rancho Cucamonga.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct
and that this declaration was executed on June 8, 1995, at Rancho
Cucamonga.
~eb~ra J '~d'X'ms CMC
City Clerk
City of Rancho Cucamonga
City Council Agenda
June 14, 1995
ADDENDUM
L. ADJOURNMENT
MEETING TO ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS PROPERTY
PER GOVERNMENT CODE 54956.8, LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER
OF FOOTHILL BLVD AND ROCHESTER AVENUE; VALLEY BASEBALL AND
JERRY FULWOOD, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER, NEGOTIATING PARTIES,
REGARDING TERMS OF PAYMENT
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
June 12, 1995
Mayor and Members of the City Council
Jack Lam, AICP, City Manager y
Debra J. Adams, CMC, City Clerk '
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION -
FIRE SPRINKLER ORDINANCE MEETING - JUNE 14, 1995
Attached for your review is some additional information regarding the June 14, 1995 Fire Sprinkler
Ordinance meeting. If you have any questions regarding the attached, please call Dennis Michael
or Bill Makshanoff.
/dja
Attachments
RANCHO CUCAMONGA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
TQ
October 16, 1990
Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: L. Dennis Michael, Fire Chief
BY: Lloyd B. Aimand, Division Chief/Fire Marshal
SUBJECT:
Findings of Fact for Residential Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Ordinance:
I. R~rCOMMF:N'nATION:
Staff recommends approval of the Resolution detailing the findings of fact in
support of the Ordinance requiring the installation of automatic fire
sprinklers in single family and multi-family dwellings, as recommended by
the Public Safety Commission at their June 12, 1990 meeting.
II. RACKGROUND:
The State of California, through its Health and Safety Code, mandates that
Findings of Fact bc adopted whenever a city or county makes changes or
modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in
the State Building Standards Code (i.e. Uniform Building Code) that arc
considered to be reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or
topographical conditions.
Although the law states that only one of the three aforementioned conditions
needs to exist when filing the Findings of Fact, we have presented evidence on
all three of the areas in an effort to substantiate more clearly and definitively
the problems that exist within the City and which emergency personnel have
been and can be confronted with.
Also, wc have added a new dimension to the findings in that we have included
graphic illustrations of what we have detailed in writing in an effort to add
clarity and proof to our Findings of Fact.
Fire Chief
LDM/js
ORDINANCE NO. 434
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
CUCAMONGA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 15.04 OF TITLE
15, BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION, OF THE RANCHO CUCAJqONGA
MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE STANDARDS NFPA
13D AND NFPA 13R, BOTH PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL FIRE
PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, REQUIRING THE INSTALLATION OF
AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN RESIDENTIAL
OCCUPANCIES AND CERTAIN BUILDINGS ACCESSORY THERETO, WITH
CERTAIN AJqENDMENTS, DELETIONS AND EXCEPTIONS TO SAID
CODES
A. Recitals.
(i) Article 2, Chapter 1, Part 1, Division 1, Title 5 of the
California Government Code authorizes adoption by reference of National Fire
Protection Association Standards NFPA 13D, 1989 edition, and NFPA 13R, 1989
edition, each as published by the National Fire Protection Association.
(ii) At least one copy of each of said Standards, certified as a
full, true and correct copy thereof by the City Clerk of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga, has been filed in the office of the City Clerk of the City of
Rancho Cucamonga in accordance with the provisions of Government Code Section
50022.6.
(iii} A duly noticed public hearing as required by Government Code
Section 50022.3 has been conducted and concluded prior to the adoption of this
Ordinance.
(iv) All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have
occurred.
B. Ordinance.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga does
hereby find, determine and ordain as follows:
SECTION 1: In all respects as set forth in the Recitals, Part A, of
this Ordinance.
SECTION 2: Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code entitled
"Buildings and Construction", of the City Council of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga is hereby amended, provided that said amendment shall not apply to
or excuse any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance, and provided further that the Uniform Codes adopted and amended by
Ordinance No. 426 of this City shall continue to be applicable to construction
for which permits have been issued prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance.
SECTION 3: Chapter 15.12 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is
hereby amended by adding Section 15.12.166 and 15.12.168 to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 434
Page 2
15.12.166 Section 3802{h} Amended - Group R, Division 1,
Occupancies. Section 3802(h} of said Uniform Building Code is amended to read
as follows:
Section 3802{h} Group R, Division 1, Occupancies. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every Group R,
Division 1, Occupancy as follows:
In every apartment house 3 or more stories in height or contain-
ing more than 15 dwelling units, and every hotel 3 or more
stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, the
system is to be installed in accordance with UBC Standard 38-1,
"Design Installation and Acceptance of Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Systems", except that residential or quick response standard
sprinkler heads shall be used in the dwelling unit and guest
room portions of the building. The water flow alarm for such
systems shall be monitored by an approved central station.
In all new Group R, Division 1, Occupancies, other than those
specified in subsection {h) 1. above, the system shall be
installed in accordance with UBC Standard 38-3, "Installation of
Automatic Fi re Spri nkl er Systems i n Apartment Houses, Hotel s,
Convents and Monasteries Less than Three Stories in Height".
15.12.168 Subsections 3802(i), (j) and {k) Added- Group R,
Division 3 and Group M, Division 1, Occupancies and Reconstructed Buildings.
Section 3802(i) Group R, Division 3, Occupancies. An automatic
fire sprinkling ~system shall be installed in all new Group R,
Division 3, Occupancies. System design and installation shall be
conducted in accordance with UBC Standard 38-4, "Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Dwellings and Lodging Houses".
{j} Group M, Division 1, Occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkling
system shall be installed in all new Group M, Division 1, Occupancies
constructed within 10 feet of a sprinklered residential occupancy on
the same property.
EXCEPTION: Group M, Division 1, Occupancies exempt from permit
requirements by Section 301(b) 1. of the Uniform Administrative
Code, as adopted.
Such buildings attached to or accessory to residential buildings may
be supplied from the system serving the primary use, however, piping
and installation within the accessory portions shall be in accordance
with UBC Standard 38-1.
Owdl nance rio. 434
Page 3
(k) Reconstructed Buildings. Any existing building of an occupancy
referred to in subsection {h), (i} or {j) of this Section, that is
hereafter damaged as a result of fire, earthquake or other disaster,
and which requires substantially complete demolition and reconstruc-
tion, shall be provided with an automatic fire sprinkler system as
specified in the pertinent subsection.
SECTION 4: Chapter 15.14 is hereby added to Title 15 of the Rancho
Cucamonga Municipal Code, adopted by Ordinance 426, of the City Council of the
City of Rancho Cucamonga, to read in words and figures as follows:
CHAPTER 15.14
Uniform Building Code Standards
Sections:
15.14.010
15.14.020
15.14.030
15.14.040
15.14.050
15.14.060
15.14.070
15.14.080
15.14.090
15.14.100
15.14.110
15.14.120
15.14.130
15.14.140
Uni form Bui 1 di ng Code Standard 38-3 Added -
Adoption of NFPA 13R Standard by Reference
Section 1.1 Amended - Scope
Section 2-1.3 Amended - Inspection and Testing
Section 2-4.2 Amended - Fire Department Connections
Section 2-4.6 Amended - Alarms
Section 2-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers
Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 Added - Adoption
of NFPA 13D Standard by Reference
Section 1.1 Amended - Scope
Section 1-5.1.2 Amended - Listed and Approved
Section 1-5.1.4 Amended - Testing and Inspection
Section 3-1.1 Amended Valves and Drains
Section 3-6 Amended - Alarms
Section 3-7 Added - Fire Department Connection
Section 4-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers
Section 15.14.010 Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 Added -
Adoption of NFPA 13R Standard by Reference. The Uniform Building Code
Standards, adopted by Ordinance No. 412 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, is
hereby amended by adoption of NFPA 13R Standard, 1989 Edition, published by
the National Fire Protection Association, Inc. Said NFPA 13R Standard shall
be referenced as Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3, "Installation of
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in Apartment Houses, Hotels, Convents and
Monasteries Less Than Three Stories in Height" and shall be utilized in design
and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems required by Section
3802(h} 2. of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by this Ordinance, except
as further amended by Sections 15.14.020 through 15.14.060 following.
Section 15.14.020 Section 1.1 Amended - Scope. Section 1-1 of
said Uniform building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 434
Page 4
Section 1.1 Scope. This standard shall be used in design and
installation of automatic sprinkler systems installed in residential
occupancies less than 3 stories in height, not withstanding any
conflicting story-he, ght referenced here, n.
Section 15.14.030 Section 2-1.3 Amended - Inspection and Testing.
Section 2-1.3 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended to
read as fol 1 ows:
Section 2-1.3(a} Inspection and Testing. All supply piping shall
be hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA 13 Standard. All
systems shall be flow tested in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga Fire
District Standards.
{b) Inspection shall be requested by the permittee at stages of
construction as outlined below:
¸1.
When underground piping is complete but prior to concealment of
any portion thereof and prior to connection to the overhead
piping riser. Hydrostatic test gauge(s) are to be in place, the
system flushed and piping pressurized for inspection.
When all overhead piping, fittings and riser are installed but
prior to concealment of any portion thereof. Hydrostatic test
gauge(s) are to be in place and the overhead system pressurized
for inspection.
When piping has been concealed and all sprinkler heads, alarm
bell{s), flow and tamper valves and monitoring devices installed
and/or connected. Test, ng of associated devices, i .e., al arms,
flow and tamper valves and monitoring systems is to be conducted
at this time.
Section 15.14.040 Section 2-4.2 Amended - Fire Department
Connection. At least one, 1-1/2 inch or one, 2-1/2 inch fire department
connection shall be provided when the sprinkler system has 20 sprinklers or
more. Fire department connections shall be located in accordance with Rancho
Cucamonga Fire Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.050 Section 2-4.6 Amended - Alarms. Section 2-4.6
of said Uniform Building Code Standard is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 2-4.6 Alarms. All water flow alarms shall be monitored
by an approved central station in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga
Fire Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.060 Section 2-6 Amended - Location of Sprinklers.
Section 2-6 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-3 is hereby amended as
fol 1 ows:
Ordinance No. 434
Page 5
Section 2-6 Location of Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be installed
in all areas.
EXCEPTIONS:
Sprinklers may be omitted from bathrooms not exceeding 55
sq.ft. in area with non-combustible plumbing fixtures.
Spri nkl ers may be omitted from smal 1 clothes closets where
the least horizontal dimension does not exceed 3 sq.ft. and
the floor area does not exceed 24 sq.ft. and ~he walls and
ceiling are surfaced with material of Class I flame-spread
classification, as defined in Chapter 42 of the Uniform
Building Code.
Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces and
other concealed spaces that are not used or intended for
living purposes or storage.
Section 15.14.070 Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 Added -
Adoption of NFPA 13D Standard by Reference. The Uniform Building Code
Standards adopted by Ordinance No. 412 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, is
hereby amended by adoption of NFPA 13D Standard, lgBg Edition published by the
National Fire Protection Association, Inc. Said NFPA 13D Standard shall be
referenced as Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4, "Installation of Automatic
Fire Sprinkler Systems in Dwellings and Lodging Houses", and shall be utilized
in design and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems required by
Section 3802(i} and {j) of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by this
Ordinance, except as further amended by Sections 15.14.080 through 15.14.140
fol 1 owing.
Section 15.14.080 Section 1.1 Amended- Scope. Section 1.1 of
said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1.1 Scope. This standard shall be used in the design and
installation of automatic sprinkler systems installed in dwellings
and lodging houses and in certain accessory buildings, not with-
standing any references herein to mobile homes.
Section 15.14.090 Section 1-5.1.2 Amended - Listed and Ap~p. roved
Devices. Section 1-5 1.2 of said Uniform Building Code Standard
· 3 4 is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1-5.1.2 Listed and approved devices. Only listed or
approved devices and materials shall be used in automatic fire
spri nkl er systems.
Ordinance No. 434
Page 6
EXCEPTION: Listing may be waived for tanks, pumps and for
support devices as permitted by Section 3-4.1. Use of unlisted
devices shall be approved by the Building Official with the
concurrence of the Fire Chief.
Section 15.14.100 Section 1-5.1.4 Amended - Inspection and
Testing. Section 1-5.1.4 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 1-5.4{a} Inspection and Testing. All systems shall be
hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA 13 Standard. All
systems shall be flow-tested in accordance with Rancho Cucamonga Fire
Protection District standards.
{b} Inspections shall be requested by the permittee at stages of
construction as outlined below:
When underground piping is complete but prior to concealment of
any portion thereof and prior to connection to the overhead
piping riser. Hydrostatic test gauge{s} are to be in place, the
system flushed and piping pressurized for inspection.
When all overhead piping, fittings and riser are installed but
prior to concealment of any portion thereof. Hydrostatic test
gauge{s) are to be in place and the overhead system pressurized
for inspection.
When pi ping has been conceal ed and al 1 spri nkl er heads, al arm
bell{s), flow and tamper valves and monitoring devices installed
and/or connected. Testing of associated devices, ie. alarms,
flow and tamper valves and monitoring systems is to be conducted
at this time.
Section 15.14.110 Section 3-1.1 Amended Valves and Drains.
Section 3-1.1 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to
read as fol 1 ows:
Section 3-1.1 Valves and Drains. Each System shall have a
single control valve arranged to shut off both the domestic and
sprinkler systems, and a separate shut-off for the domestic system
only.
EXCEPTIONS:
The sprinkler system piping may have a separate control
valve where supervised by one of the following methods:
Central station, proprietary or remote station alarm
system.
Ordinance No. 434
Page 7
Local alarm service that will cause the sounding of an
audible signal at a constantly attended point.
A separate shut-off valve is not required for the domestic
water supply in multi purpose piping systems.
Section 15.14.120 Section 3-6 Amended - Alarms. Section 3-6 of
said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 3-6 Alarms. Local waterflow alarm(s} shall be provided on
all systems. The waterflow alarm or alarms shall be located on {an)
exterior wall(s), or such other location{s) as approved by the
Building Official with the concurrence of the Fire Chief, and so
located as to be audible throughout the building.
Section 15.14.130 Section 3-7 Added - Fire Department Connection.
Chapter 3 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended by
addition of Section 3-7 to read as follows:
Section 3-7 Fire Department Connection. All R-3 occupancies
exceeding 5,000 sq.ft. in floor area shall be provided with an
approved fire department connection installed in accordance with
Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District standards.
Section 15.14.140 Section 4-6 Amended- Location of Sprinklers.
Section 4-6 of said Uniform Building Code Standard 38-4 is hereby amended to
read as fol 1 ows:
Section 4-6 Location of Sprinklers.
i nal 1 areas.
EXCEPTIONS:
Sprinklers shall be installed
Sprinklers may be omitted from bathrooms not exceeding 55
sq.ft. in floor area with non-combustible plumbing
fi xt ures.
Sprinklers may be omitted from small closets where the
least horizontal dimension does not exceed 3 sq.ft. and the
floor area does not exceed 24 sq.ft. and the walls and
ceiling are surfaced with materials of Class I flame spread
classification as defined in Chapter 42 of the Uniform
Building Code.
Sprinklers may be omitted from attics, crawl spaces and
other concealed spaces that are not used or intended for
living purposes or storage.
Sprinklers may be omitted from entrance foyers that are not
the only means of egress.
Ordinance No. 434
Page 8
1991.
SECTION 5: This Ordinance shall become fully effective on January 1,
SECTION 6: The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance and the City Clerk
shall cause the same to be published within fifteen (15} days after its
passage at least once in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin a newspaper of
general circulation published in the City of Ontario, California, and
circulated in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 7th day of November, ~990.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Alexander, Buquet, Stout, Wright
None
Brown
· Stout, Hayor
ATTEST:
I, DEBRA J. ADAHS, CITY CLERK of the City of Rancho Cucamonga,
California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a
regular meeting of the Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the
17th day of October, 1990, and was finally passed at a regular meeting of the
City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the 7th day of November,
1990.
Executed thts 8th day of November, 1990 at Rancho Cucamonga,
Cali fornt a.
O~b;a j. A"3am,~yrEi ty Cler~~i'~
Reducing Local'Jurisdiction Fire Expenditures A
Myth With Mandatory Residential Fire Sprinklers
Over the past two years, there has been a very clear shift in the
supporting testimony being offered by proponents of residential
sprinklers. While the potential life-safety and property
protection benefits continue to be espoused, these have become
secondary to the new priority of "reducing local jurisdiction
expenditures."
Of concern to the Building Industry is the grossly overestimated
amount of fire-safety infrastructure demand which will supposedly
be "offset" by mandating residential fire sprinklers. Given the
critical economic issues confronting local governments today, it is
understandable that a jurisdiction would welcome the recommendation
from a "fire protection expert" that the need for additional fire
stations and/or personnel. will be substantially reduced or
eliminated if sprinklers are mandated in new residential
construction. Indeed, how could a jurisdiction resist the
opportunity to shift some of the financial responsibility for fire
protection from itself to the new (and non-voting) homebuyer.
While this may be a convenient recommendation, it is also a
completely dysfunctional approach to dealing with local fire
protection funding California's concerns. Consider the following:
A well-known city in the' Central Valley recorded 2,020
calls to which the local fire department responded in
1988.
Of the 2,020 calls, 52 (2.6%) were related to ,,structure
fires" (i.e., residential and commercial buildings).
(This falls within the statewide average of 2-3%).
Of the 2,020 calls, 1,968 (97.4%) were related to
automobile accidents, heart attacks and other health
related emergencies.
This is a very typical example of fire department response patterns
in California jurisdictions. Obviously, mandating fire sprinklers
in new construction will do nothin~ to offset the very clear need
for continued response to the overwhelming number of (non-fire
related) department call (98%). In addition, of those calls which
are fire-related, only a very small number would occur in newly
constructed dwellings and even then, the fire department will still
have to respond.
Bottom line: A jurisdiction choosing this approach is simply
avoiding the inevitable expense. In addition, it will only take a
few years (if that long) for the new homebuyers to realize that
their level of service is less than that in older areas while they
pay at least the same (and probably more) in local tax. After all,
the fire chiefs are not advocating areduction in taxes for the new
homebuyer. They are, however, advocating an increase in mortgage
payment to cover the cost of the sprinkler system.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
MEMORANDUM
DATE: June 19, 1995
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Jack Lain, AICP, City M~~--~ ~--
SUBJECT:
MOTION FROM JUNE 14, 1995
FIRE SPRINKLER ORDINANCE MEETING
Attached is the motion in regards to the direction for a public hearing on the Fire Sprinkler
Ordinance. Please note that upon further examination of the motion, there is need for some
clarification in regards to portions of it. Staff will be contacting the maker of the motion for
clarification.
~/dja
Jerry B. Fulwood, Deputy City Manager
Bill Makshanoff, Building Official
Dennis Michael, Fire Chief
Attachment
MOTION: Moved by Gutierrez, seconded by Biane to direct staff to go back to modify the Fire
Sprinkler Ordinance, to make it optional to mandate that builders offer that amenity and that we
investigate the size for location of structures, i.e., on hillsides that should have sprinklers, and
that we conduct the appropriate heating to that effect. Motion carded 3-2 (Alexander, Curatalo
voted no).
BALDY VIEW BULLETIN
A publication of the Building Industry Association/Baldy View Region
May 1995
President's Message
by Phil Walsh
Getting Out of Bed
May Be Dangerous
To Your Health
I almost stayed in bed all
day last Wednesday. I had a dream
Tuesday night that the government
had let me down and had not prop-
erly prepared me for the horrible day
ahead.
When my radio alarm went
off at 5:30, I thought back to the
dream I had the night before and
broke out into a cold sweat. In my
dream sequence, my alarm had gone
off as usual, but I had not properly
grounded myselfbefore reaching out
and tuming off the buzzer. The net
result was a terrible electric shock.
Next I carelessly got out of bed. I
had not read the latest OSHA regu-
lations on "Proper Departure From a
Reclining Position in Bed to an Up-
right Stance." The result was I fell
flat on the floor. I was really in
trouble since I had misplaced my
manual on "Proper Methods for
See President's Message, page 4
Fire Sprinklers:
Too Much Too Late
by Chief Joe Erwin, Hurst (Texas) Fire Department
Are residential sprinklers
the answer to fire deaths in the
United States? Will the next genera-
tion of Americans, or even a later
generation, be largely free from the
threat of fire in their homes because
of residential sprinklers? The an-
swer is a resounding no.
More than 15 years of resi-
dential sprinkler promotion have
failed to produce significant results
in the reducing fire deaths in dwell-
ings. The sprinkler industryandthe
fire service have, almost incessantly,
proclaimed the life-saving solution
provided by residential sprinklers.
The USFA has spent hundreds of
thousands of dollars in demonstra-
tion projects, workshops, employee
costs and published materials.
The idea is noble, but its
desired success will not be achieved,
because residential sprinklers are
too much, too late. The cost is too
much and the emphasis too late to
make a significant difference in loss
of life in America's residences.
Consider the reasons residential
sprinklers will fail to providethe life-
saving espoused by their evange-
lists.
The true cost of retrofit
First, a close examination reveals
that retro~tting existing dwellings
with sprinklers is out of the eco-
nomic question. Proof comes from
published reports on the USFA's
demonstration residential sprinkler
installations in Denver and Seattle.
Both projects emphasize the futility
of trying to fund RS installations in
existingdwellings.
Twosingle-familydwellings
were chosen for retrofit in Denver
and one in Seattle. All three were
being rehabbed with Deparhnent of
Housing and Urban Development
funds. Coordinating the sprinkler
installation with the rehabs of the
three structures allowed for a sig-
ni~cant cost reduction that would
not be available to the 100 million-
plus dwellingunits in existence inthe
United States today. In spite of
these reduced outlays, the costs were
excessive.
See Fire Sprinklere, page 8
IN THIS ISSUE
[] Executive Officer, pg. 3
[3Commentary, pg. 5
[]Government Affairs, pg. 7
[]HomeAidReport, pg. 12
[]OSHA, pg. 16
[]Guest Columns, pgs. 17 & 18
[]Calendar, pg. 21
[] In the News, pg. 23
Fire Sprinklers
continued from page
One of the two Denver
houses was 1,345 square feet, and
HUD remodeling funds, not includ-
ing the cost for RS, totaled $33,500.
The other had 861 square feet and
HUD funding of $25,278. The larger
dwelling's RS system cost $7,355, or
$5.47 per square foot, and the smaller
house's sprinklers cost $6,942, or
$8.06 per square foot.
Although the $5.47 or $8.06
per foot cost eliminates the mass of
existing dwellings from having RS
retrofitted, except for special provi-
sions such as HUD grants, the cost
ordinarily would have been much
higher. The Denver water depart-
ment waived the line tap fees of
$2,750 for 3/4-inch water lines and
$5,460 for 1 -inch water lines.
The 1990 document describ-
ing the projects, "Residential Fire
Sprinklers Retrofit Demonstration
Project, Final Report, Phase II, Single
Family Structures," addresses the
waived tap fees (for these two houses
only) were reviewed and replaced
with a standby charge of $1 per
month to be paid by the homeowners,
plus construction costs...This was a
special arrangement and it was not
suggested that this would become
permanentpolicy.
Further indication that the
costs proclaimed by some RS advo-
cates require closer analysis occurs
in the same publication: "In St. Pc-
tersburg, the water department was
unwilling to waive their monthly
standby fee for an up-sized service
line. Therefore, rather than burden
the homeowners with a monthly fee,
the project team installed a new
dedicated 1 ine for the sprinklers which
was not subject to fee. In this case,
the construction costs to do this were
paid by the grant, though such a
subsidy would not be available to
other homeowners considering fire
sprinklers."
The RS demonstration
project in Seattle amplifies the futil-
ity of trying to justify the cost of
retrofit in existing residential struc-
tures. The 5,300-square-foot build-
ing is a single-family converted to
multi-family occupancy that had RS
installed for $19,798. At first glance,
that seems to be a reasonable cost
for a three-story structure build in
1902. However, the HUD-funded
rehab costs of $364,000 substan-
tially reduced the cost of the ex-
posed piping installation. The 1993
property valuation for the structure,
despite more than $380,000 spent on
remodeling and RS, is only $220,000.
Although the report men-
tions several instances where RS
reportedly cost as little as $1.50 per
square foot, it's important to remem-
ber that each of these dwellings was
having thousands of subsidy dollars
poured into it. The true RS costs
were reduced for these unoccupied
dwellings because of the savings
provided the RS contractor, both in
having cavities exposed for easier
installation and in having the surface
finishing completed underthe HUD
grant. InstallingRS inexistingdwell-
ings , except in cases of major
rehabilitation and/or subsidy, costs
too much to expect any significant
fire safety benefit.
The second type of dwell-
ings that may have RS installed are,
of course, newly constructed ones.
Let's assume that effective in 1995,
all new dwelling units in the United
States will have residential sprin-
klers installed. The Statistical Ab
stract of the Unites States estimates
that there were 102,264,000 dwell-
ing units in this country in 1990. Each
year, about 1,225,000 are added to
the inventory. Table 1 projects the
number of dwelling units with resi-
dential sprinklers as the years pass.
In 2025, less than one-third
of U.S. dwelling units would have
residential sprinklers. The delay
between enacting an ordinance re-
quiring residential sprinklers in new
dwelling units and any positive ef-
fect in terms of life saving was high-
lighted by an August 1993 account in
the Dallas Morning News of five
people killed by a dwelling fire in a
Dallas suburb. The community, long
known as a leader in fire protection,
had a residential sprinklerordinance
in effect when the fire occurred.
Thisdwelling, likethetwo-thirdsthat
will be in existence in 2025 without
residential sprinklers, was built prior
to the mandate.
Sprinkler life expectancy
Another factor that must be taken
into account is the expected lifetime
of a residential fire sprinkler system.
A 1988 study by FEMA and the
USFA suggested an expected life-
time of 30 years. The study states,
"Because residential sprinklertech-
nology is relatively new, historical
data tells little about the probable
system life. But over the decades
thata building shell remains in use, its
major systems (including plumbing
and any sprinkler system) ordinarily
will be replaced at shorter intervals.
To expect the RS to remain
operational for 30 years is optimistic,
See Fire Sprinklere, page 9
8 Baldy View Bulletin
Fire Sprin'klers
continued from page 8
, ~.
but if the systems remain operational
that long, what would be the life
safety benefit? A 1987 survey by
the National Association of Home
Builders provides pertinent informa-
tion regarding fire deaths by age and
type of structure. More than 70% of
the deaths occurred in single-family
dwellings that were more than 30
years old. Only 12% of the deaths
occurred in dwellings that were less
than 20 years old. Based on the
survey, the optimum time for RS to
save lives occurs after the system's
expected lifetime has expired.
Another factor reducing the
~effectiveness of RS is that from the
time of installation, some percentage
wi 11 drop out of service due to needed
repairs, carelessness orremodeling
changes. In 1992 a major insurer
released an analysis of its inspec-
tions of 368 commercial occupan-
cies, most or all of them sprinklered.
Of these randomly selected
properties, 59% were found to have
serious design or maintenance defi-
ciencies in sprinklers and/or other
fixed fire protection systems. If
sprinkler systems in commercial oc-
cupancies subject to fire service and
insurance industry inspection are not
prope~y maintained, why should we
expect RS, without similar scrutiny,
)be maintained?
Neither homeowners nor
renters have expressed significant
interest in residential sprinklers, and
there is no reason to think they will
jump at the opportunity to repair or
replace an out-of-service system.
As mentioned earl ier, i fall new dwe 11-
ing construction has RS installed
beginning January 1995, by 2025
only one-third of the existing dwell-
ing units in the United States will
have RS. Yet the number of opera-
tional RS will be reduced by service
lifetime expiration and lack of main-
tenante. This further complicates
the sprinkler advocates' efforts to
save U.S. citizens from fire with
residential sprinklers.
Last year, the NFPA pub-
lished a report based on 3, 134 fires
during 1925-69 where automatic
sprinkler system performance was
unsatisfactory. Failure to maintain
the system was the cause for the
unsatisfactory performance 53% of
the time. Other causes were partial
protection, inadequate water supply,
faulty bui iding construction and in-
adequate systems for the level haz-
ard. Can'tyouvisualize RS systems,
without the watchful eye ofinspec-
tors, failing to perform forthe same
reasons?
An oversold technology
Thus far we've seen that RS cost too
much for existing dwellings, and that
by the time a significant number of
newly constructed dwellings have
RS installed, expected lifetime and
lack of maintenance will have taken
a large toll. In an effort to convince
fire protection professionals, the
homebuilding industry and anyone
who will listen about the positive
effects of RS, another area of inac-
curate information has surfaced.
Operation Life Safety, a
project of the IAFC, creates a prob-
lem of credible information exchange
with its report "379 Successful Sprin-
kler Activations." The second listing
on the report has been highly publi-
cized, and several conference speak-
ers have used it to highlight the life-
saving effects of RS.
The report lists two "potential fatali-
ties" associated with this fire that
were apparently averted by RS. A
closer examination shows that the
occupant was aware of the fire and
able to walk outthe door unhindered,
so how can the RS be credited with
savings lives?
This report lists 16 instances
of single-family dwell ing fires where
31 "potential fatalities" were averted
by residential sprinklers. I tried to
contact individuals in all the commu-
nities who had knowledge of the
incidents. In three of the 16 in-
stances, representing five "potential
fatalities," information regarding the
fires was not available. I contacted
the communities' fire departments,
but they knew nothing about the
reports. OLS reportedthat itdidnot
have information about these three
incidents, because they occurred prior
to 1992 and the records were un-
available.
I investigated the remaining
13 instances. In three, the RS pro-
vided the alerting and fire extin-
guishment and thus possible l ifesav-
ing to some or all of the seven "po-
tential fatalities."
In another nine instances,
the occupants were aware of the
fire before RS activation. In these
cases, the 17 "potential fatalities"
had an opportunity to exit their dwell-
ings without the aid of the residential
sprinklers.
In the remaining case, with
two "potential fatalities", no one was
at home when the fire occurred. A
monitored alarm system with smoke
detector transmitted the alarm to a
central dispatch.
See Fire Sprinklers, page 10
Baldy View Bulletin 9
Fire Sprinklers
continued from page 9
The OLS reports of the instances of single-family
dwellings RS preventing 31 potential fatalities are gen-
erally inaccurate.
I have shown that, because of the cost, RS will
not make a significant difference in fire protection
regarding existing buildings. I believe I've proved that
RS will not make a major impact on lives saved in new
dwelling construction. Homeowners and tenants are not
c lamoring for it, and by the time RS reaches a meaning-
ful proportion of existing dwellings, the lack ofmainte-
nance and replacement will cause a decline in the
number of systems that are still operational.
I wish every dwelling in America had RS. Since
this will never happen, inaccurate reporting further
destroys our credibility and hinders our efforts at pre-
venting residential fire deaths by more conventional
means.
Table 2 shows that annual fire deaths in the
United States during the past 30 years have been
reduced from about4 per 100,000 population to 1.6 in
1992. This 60% reduction occurred without residential
sprinklers and has reduced the loss of life threat from fire
to less than that from falls or poisonings (Table 3).
Although one fire death is more than I'd like to see, some
will occur, and to continue the reductions experienced
during this era of success, we must have realistic
approaches to lifesaving. It's time for a
renewed commitment to prevent loss of life to fires in
our homes, first through fire safety education. Every
person who is a part of the fire service should feel a
moral obligation to educate those in their community
about the threat of fire and prevention measures.
Firefighters can lead the way in station tours,
school programs and community efforts. Fire depart-
ments must spend more time planning how to prevent
dwelling fires and determining whether the occupants
have an escape plan, not arguing whether staffing should
be three, four, or five on an engine, or whether fire trucks
should be red, yellow or green.
The fire service must also recommit to smoke
detectors. We have to renew our determination that
properly installed an maintained smoke detectors are
present in all American homes.
Fire departments can work toward accomplish-
ing that goal by providing smoke detectors to our
residents. We should give them away, install them,
replace batteries or whatever it takes to have a detector
available to warn of a life-threatening fire. It's time to
recommit to these proven and cost-effective means of
reducing the fire death rate and admit that residential
sprinklers are too much to late.
Reprinted by permission of Fire Chief Magazine. Joe Erwin
is the fire chief and emergency management coordinator for
the City of Hurst, Texas, a suburb of Fort Worth. His more than
30 years in the fire service includes stints as~re marshal in
Denton, Texas, and at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. Erwin
has been an instructor at the Texas A&M University Munici-
pal Fire School for 15 years and is a former president of the
Texas Fire Chie]~' Association.
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10 Baldy View Bulletin